Date of Award

Summer 2024

Project Type

Thesis

College or School

CHHS

Department

Nursing

Departments (Collect)

Department of Nursing

Program or Major

Direct Entry Master of Nursing

Degree Name

Other

First Advisor

Pamela Kallmerten

Abstract

Background: A macrosystem in Southern Massachusetts faces challenges in patients with neurological conditions recieveing a dysphagia screening prior to anything enter the patients mouth in the Emergency Room.

Local Problem: The educational gap identified in Registered Nurses regarding the frequency of screening being completed and the knowledge of the indications for a dysphagia screening.

Methods: Using the Plan-Do-Study-Act model, an educational intervention was implemented. An educational poster was displayed in the microsystem. Data was collected pre-and post-intervention through a survey to measure change.

Interventions: The educational poster was displayed in high-traffic areas of the microsystem. This educational poster included information regarding why a dysphagia screening is necessary, indications for dysphagia screening, policies and procedures, and documentation of dysphagia screening.

Results: 50% of nurses reported that they completed a dysphagia screening prior to the educational intervention compared to 80% following the education. Therefore, the specific aim was met and while there was an increased frequency in registered nurses' self reporting that they completed dysphagia screening, there was still potential for improving dysphagia screening within the ER.

Conclusion: Reinforcement of evidence-based practice for patient safety was necessary in the ER microsystem. Education regarding the indications for dysphagia screening and clarification of which medication delivery routes require screening was effective to meet the specific aim. However, future steps are necessary so that all patients with neurological conditions would recieve a dysphagia screening for best practice.

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