Increasing Special Pathogen Preparedness At A Frontline Hospital: A Quality Improvement Project, Mckenna Freed, Christa Arguinchona, Barbara Bennett-Wolcott

Articles, Abstracts, and Reports

No abstract provided.

Nurse Education For Perinatal Substance Use Disorder And Mental Health, Michelle Simpson

Articles, Abstracts, and Reports

No abstract provided.

Providing Skilled Mentorship For A Newly Forming Research And Evidence-Based Practice (Ebp) & Education Council, Bedane Geleta, Gale Springer, So Young Pak

Articles, Abstracts, and Reports

No abstract provided.

Resilience And Reality: Exploring The Lived Experiences Of People Living With Hiv In Texas During The Covid-19 Pandemic – A Qualitative Study., Ahmed F. Alanazi

Social Work Dissertations - Archive

This study investigated the lived experiences of individuals living with HIV (PLWH) in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area of Texas during the COVID-19 pandemic, using an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) framework. The research examined the intersection of health, social dynamics, and psychological resilience among PLWH, who faced compounded vulnerabilities due to systemic inequities and the dual public health crises of HIV and COVID-19. Through semi-structured interviews with ten participants from diverse backgrounds, the study captured the profound impacts of disrupted healthcare systems, heightened stigma, and social isolation on this marginalized population. The findings reveal that the pandemic exacerbated existing inequities …

The Impact Of Nurse-Led Environmental Controls On Insomnia In Elderly Acute Care Inpatients, Tyler G. Van Note, Lindsay V. Garay, Ava R. Eisenhart

SPARK Symposium Presentations

The Impact of Nurse-Led Environmental Controls on Insomnia in Elderly Acute Care Inpatients

Research Question: Does teaching nurses to control the patient environment (I) in acute care in-patients aged 65+ (P) reduce insomnia compared to current practice (Q1H rounding) (C) from 67.4% to less than 30% as measured by the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) (O)?

Background and Significance: 67.4% of hospitalized patients report experiencing insomnia from sleep disturbances, which can significantly impact their recovery and overall health outcomes. Nurses can address these disruptions by monitoring noise, light exposure, and staff interruptions.

Sample methods: The literature review search keywords were sleep …

Quality Improvement Initiative To Decrease Excessive Testing For Streptococcal Pharyngitis In Adults In An Outpatient Clinic Setting, Hana Roussey, Jennifer Sternberg, David Phillippi

SPARK Symposium Presentations

Project Title: Quality Improvement Initiative to Decrease Excessive Testing for Streptococcal Pharyngitis in Adults in an Outpatient Clinic Setting

Background and Rationale: Current guidelines recommend utilization of a clinical decision-making tool, like the Centor score, in conjunction with confirmatory diagnostic methods, such as a throat culture or rapid test, rather than either method alone. The existing practice at the clinic site was to test most adults with upper respiratory infection symptoms (e.g., sore throat, cough, fever, sinus congestion) with little discretion. With the reported prevalence of streptococcal pharyngitis or “strep throat” in adults being 5-15%, universally testing adult patients could …

The Impact Of High Deductible Health Plans On Mental Health Treatment, Kristian D. Dambrino

SPARK Symposium Presentations

Project Title: The Impact of High Deductible Health Plans on Mental Health Treatment

Background and Rationale: High Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs) are designed to reduce overall healthcare spending by shifting more upfront costs to patients to discourage overutilization of care, yet HDHPs often increase financial burden, particularly in outpatient mental health care. Patients covered by HDHPs often face substantial out-of-pocket costs before reaching their deductible. This can lead to potential delays or discontinuation of psychiatric treatment. Financial transparency interventions by the mental health provider may mitigate these barriers through more-informed patient decision-making regarding payment options. This project evaluates the impact …

Bibliography, Mary P. Bennett

Faculty/Staff Personal Papers

Bibliography of publications by Mary Bennett.

Exploring Factors Influencing Posttraumatic Growth Among Nurses: A Path Analysis, Shinhi Han, Hee Sun Kang, Koun Eum, Kathleen Karsten, Faith Armstrong

Publications and Research

Introduction: Persistent exposure to the COVID-19 pandemic has subjected frontline nurses to heightened levels of collective traumatic syndromes, including stress, burnout, and emotional distress. Resilience and self-compassion may serve as protective factors in mitigating stress and burnout stemming from the pandemic. Moreover, these factors may contribute to posttraumatic growth (PTG), which has been recognized as a potential outcome for nurses caring for patients. This study aimed to investigate the factors contributing to PTG among registered nurses, with perceived stress, burnout, resilience, and self-compassion.

Methods: This cross-sectional observational survey used convenience sampling with 228 registered nurses from New York. Data were …

Reducing Unnecessary Antibiotics For The Treatment Of Urinary Tract Infections, Megan A. Carullo

West Chester University Doctoral Projects

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common infections in women and are often a reason for prescribing antibiotics. Appropriately treating these infections is vital to prevent significant health concerns such as pyelonephritis or sepsis. Providers commonly prescribe antibiotics as a preventive measure, but incorrect usage can lead to unnecessary use of antibiotics. This is a large concern for the medical community, given the increased rates of antibiotic resistance. This quality improvement project aimed to answer the following research question: In women with recurrent UTIs (rUTIs), does presumptive treatment compared to standard treatment upon confirmed infection increase the number …

Assessing The Effect Of Increasing The Frequency Of Copd Assessment Test Utilization On Rehospitalization Rates For Home Health Patients, Rebecca Goldberg

West Chester University Doctoral Projects

Abstract

This evidence-based practice Process Improvement (PI) project involves using the COPD Assessment Test (CAT) to decrease rehospitalization rates for home health patients with a diagnosis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The project includes having therapy clinicians complete the CAT during their in-home skilled visits, between home health nursing visits to increase the frequency of completion. The goal is to recognize symptoms of exacerbation early, engage patients in their own care, encourage communication with providers, initiate early intervention at home, and prevent rehospitalization. Patients with COPD experience frequent symptom exacerbations leading to anxiety, poor quality of life, and challenges …

The Impact Of Health Promotion Home Visits On Loneliness In An Older Adult Population, Jean M. Herb

West Chester University Doctoral Projects

Loneliness among older adults is a significant public health concern associated with adverse physical, emotional, and cognitive outcomes. Despite widespread recognition of the issue, effective interventions remain limited in clinical practice. This Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project implemented and evaluated a Health Promotion Home Visit (HPHV) intervention designed to reduce loneliness in community-dwelling adults aged 65 and older. A quality improvement initiative using a pre-post design was conducted at a community outreach division of a home health agency. Patients received HPHV every other week over an eight-week period. The UCLA Loneliness Scale (Version 3) was used to assess loneliness …

Cus+E: Creating A Culture Of Safety Through Improved Communication Within Perioperative Services, Sunilka Thompson

West Chester University Doctoral Projects

The Department of Perioperative Services identified ongoing communication and cultural challenges that compromised team dynamics, psychological safety, and patient care. A culture of safety survey revealed a significant disconnect: while many staff felt comfortable raising safety concerns, nurses and ancillary support staff reported widespread experiences of disrespectful behavior—perceptions not shared by providers. In response, the department implemented the CUS+E (I’m concerned, I’m uncomfortable, this is a safety issue + Explanation) communication tool to enhance the real-time escalation of safety concerns. Project goals included increasing safety reporting, reducing adverse events, and improving staff confidence in raising concerns. Post-implementation surveys indicated that …

Pediatric Medical Traumatic Stress: The Effects Of A Medical Trauma On Development, Psychological Well-Being, And Interventions For Prevention, Emilee M. Stevens

Senior Honors Theses and Projects

Background Pediatric medical traumatic stress (PMTS) is a syndrome of physiological and psychological responses that occur in children following exposure to stressful or traumatic medical events. Experiences such as painful procedures, admission to pediatric intensive care units (PICU) or neonatal intensive care units (NICU), and acute injuries may be traumatic to some children. This integrative review aims to identify risk factors associated with PMTS, examine its impact on child development and psychological well-being, and outline nursing interventions for prevention. Methods A search of ProQuest and PubMed was conducted to identify peer-reviewed articles published in English between 2020 and 2025. Inclusion …

Recognizing The Risk: Enhancing Nurse Preparedness For Postpartum Hemorrhage Through Simulation-Based Education, Ishpreet Kaur

Nursing | Student Research Posters

Background: Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a serious, often unexpected complication after childbirth involving excessive bleeding. It is a leading cause of maternal death and can happen quickly, even in healthy pregnancies. Risk factors may increase the chances of PPH, but it can also occur without warning. Nurses play a key role in recognizing early signs and taking quick action. However, delays still happen due to inconsistent training, unclear protocols, and lack of preparedness. Strengthening nurse education and improving emergency response systems are essential to improve care and achieve better outcomes for mothers. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the impact …

Preserving Memories, Building Relationships, Jamie H. Cochran

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Loneliness among adults aged 65 and older is a significant health concern linked to negative physical and mental outcomes, especially in rural communities. This DNP project implemented a 4-week scrapbooking intervention within a faith-based rural community in North Carolina to reduce feelings of loneliness. Guided by Watson’s Theory of Human Caring, participants engaged in collaborative arts activities designed to foster social connection and emotional expression. The potential results of this project are multifaceted, including improved social engagement, emotional well-being, and strengthened community bonds. The findings support integrating creative, relationship-centered strategies into community nursing practice to enhance well-being among older adults.

Adolescents Sexual Health Education Disparities: A Comparative Study Of Inclusion, Cultural Barriers, Access, Policy In Relation To Health And Long Term Outcomes​, Sofia Vega

Nursing | Student Research Posters

Currently, across the different states, sexual health education varies in a range of comprehensive sexual health education to limited sexual health education. These differences in curriculum are not only different from each other but also within themselves. This creates disparities in the knowledge and access among adolescents within their sexual health, which then creates a range of complications involving confidence in knowledge, pregnancy, STIs, and overall inclusion. When granting access to contraceptives on an educational campus, along with education on contraceptives, it allows students to access these tools in a safe environment and increases usage of condoms, lowering the risk …

Prepared To Protect: Improving Cardiac Emergency Response Through Education And Action Planning In Youth Club Sports, Melissa Garcia

Nursing | Senior Theses

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is the leading cause of death in youth sports, illuminating the essential demand for adequate emergency response, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), automated external defibrillator (AED) usage, and comprehensive emergency action plans (EAPs). Research shows that despite the importance of prompt intervention, the majority of youth club sports programs outside of the school setting lack the training and resources needed to respond effectively to SCA incidents. This study will evaluate the effectiveness of an educational seminar that includes CPR/AED training and EAP simulation exercises in improving participants’ knowledge, skills, and confidence in managing cardiac emergencies. A quasi-experimental …

Enhancing Advocacy Through Nursing Interventions For Hospitalized Pediatric Oncology Patients With Absent Parents, Ma Seandee Mae Corrales

Nursing | Senior Theses

Parental advocacy is essential for high-quality, patient-centered care, particularly in pediatric oncology settings. However, when parents are infrequently present due to responsibilities such as work or caring for other children, pediatric patients may experience advocacy gaps, leading to delays in treatment, miscommunication, and unmet needs. Nurses are uniquely positioned to help address this need, but limited research exists on how nursing policies and educational interventions can enhance nurse-led advocacy in such situations. This research proposal assesses the effectiveness of structured nursing policies and educational programs designed to support nurse-led advocacy for pediatric oncology patients with infrequently present or absent parents. …

The Power Of Plate & Knowledge: Nutrition’S Role In Pcos Management For Asian American Women, Cassandra Curameng Diego Curameng

Nursing | Senior Theses

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common metabolic endocrine condition with symptoms that severely impair women's physical and reproductive health. However, individuals with PCOS, especially Asian American women, lack sufficient understanding of non-pharmacological symptom management options, such as dietary and lifestyle modifications. This research proposal explores whether culturally appropriate nutrition education can help manage PCOS symptoms and lessen the need for medical management. The literature critique focuses on addressing the knowledge gap regarding treatment management among women diagnosed with PCOS, health risks related to PCOS, ethnic differences, and nutrition. This proposal investigates the impact of a dietary education program tailored …

Reducing Anxiety And Burden: The Effect Of Caregiver Education In Hospice Care For Immigrant Families, Nicole Maria

Nursing | Senior Theses

Purpose

The purpose of this research proposal is to explore the impact of early mental health screenings, comprehensive education, and support in alleviating caregiver burden and anxiety among hospice immigrant family caregivers.

Methods

This research proposal will evaluate the effectiveness of caregiver education and mental health screenings. Baseline data will be collected using the Zarit Burden Scale and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). After interventions are implemented, a post survey will be conducted to evaluate the effectiveness.

Results

If the findings are statistically significant, they will support the hypothesis that caregiver education can reduce burden, improve caregivers’ mental well-being, and …

Awareness Of The Physiological Changes Occurring In Older Adults Can Reduce Dehydration And Electrolyte Imbalances, Lisa Isley

Nursing | Senior Theses

Background: Individuals over 65 years are at an increased risk of dehydration. The physiological changes that occur with age and medication consumption can cause fluid and electrolyte imbalances that can physically and mentally impair individuals over 65 years old. Objective: By providing education to individuals 65 years and older regarding the significance of drinking water and consuming electrolytes daily, older adults can reduce their dehydration symptoms and improve their quality of life. Method: The proposed research is a quasi experimental study geared towards individuals 65 years and older. The quasi-experimental study will include two pre-surveys and then two post-surveys. The …

Effects Of Educational Intervention On Asthmatic Children, Zoe Coggins

Nursing | Senior Theses

Abstract

Children are more vulnerable to asthmatic symptoms due to the physiological immaturity of their respiratory systems. Therefore, irritants are deemed more hazardous for the pediatric population. Pollution is a growing health concern, and within the literature review, several approaches to the measurement of the impact of low air quality and educational interventions are discussed. The themes identified in the literature review are increased risk of pollution-induced exacerbation due to age, behavior, and residential proximity to emission-producing facilities. The review of the literature demonstrated how pollution is a growing public health concern, especially among the pediatric population. Interventions, reviewed in …

Psychosocial Factors Affecting Quality Of Life In Kidney Transplant Recipients, Lawrence Panlilio

Nursing | Senior Theses

Background: Kidney transplantation is the best solution to save lives for those that have end-stage renal disease. However, psychosocial issues play a huge role in their quality of life after the procedure which can affect these individuals negatively. These issues recipients face include depression and anxiety, a lack of social support, and self management difficulties. Objective: This research consists of investigating psychosocial factors that affect kidney transplant recipients’ quality of life. Evidenced by research, focused assistance with ongoing support in patients is essential after receiving surgery and recovery. A literature review was conducted that consists of research on studies with …

The Impact Of A Geriatric Trauma Unit On Patient Outcomes, Shannon E. Johnson

DNP Projects

Abstract

Background: Traumatic injuries in the geriatric (> 65) patient population can have devastating effects. Only a small percentage of these patients return to independent ambulation and living. As the population continues to age and life expectancy continues to increase, the incidence of traumatic injuries in geriatric patients will continue to increase. Geriatric friendly hospital wards in several disciplines have been shown to reduce length of stay and improve patient outcomes. However, there has been no research surrounding geriatric trauma wards specifically.

Purpose: The purpose of this quality improvement project was to evaluate the impact of admitting geriatric trauma patients …

Design And Implementation Of An Evidence-Based Pilot Program To Support New Graduate Nurses' Transition To Professional Practice: Application Of Soft Skills Education In An Associate Degree Program, Torri Crosby-Martin

All Capstone Projects

Problem Statement:
Post-pandemic nurse graduates experienced difficulty transition to professional practice due to limited focus on soft skills acquisition in pre-licensure nursing curricula.

Background:
Faculty characterized graduates as underprepared for professional practice, stating concerns affecting retention, patient outcomes, and work satisfaction.

Aim:
The quality improvement project goal was to address the transition to practice readiness by providing soft skills education to associate degree students.

Theoretical Framework:
This project applied Benner's Novice-to-Expert MOdel and Duchscher's Stages of Transition.

Methods:
Utilizing a mixed methods approach, March-April 2024, a sample size of 28 participants completed both pre- and post-Casey-Fink Readiness for Practice Surveys …

Facilitators And Barriers To Reducing Maternal Mortality Rates In Non-Hispanic Black Women: An Integrative Review, Melissa Marie Andersson, Elizabeth L. Goes

All Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Introduction - Black maternal mortality remains a crucial public health crisis in the United States despite a plethora of research on the incidence. This presents in the persistent disparities in health outcomes between Black and White mothers and newborns. While numerous studies have explored isolated factors contributing to this issue, few have synthesized the full scope of barriers and facilitators influencing Black maternal health outcomes in the United States specifically.

Research Aim - This integrative review aims to identify and organize the key facilitators and barriers to reducing Black maternal mortality in the United States using the socio-ecological model as …

Minimizing Fasting Requirements To Maximize Patient Satisfaction Prior To A Scheduled Cardiac Catheterization, Kierra Thies

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Practice Innovation Projects

Background: Patients are often kept NPO (nil per os), or “nothing by mouth,” longer than necessary before cardiac catheterization procedures. Local Problem: Patients scheduled for cardiac catheterization procedures receive instructions to begin fasting at midnight on the day of their procedure regardless of their scheduled procedural start time. This directive results in patient dissatisfaction as patients are fasting longer than current guideline recommendation.
Methods: The facility updated its order set to align with the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) fasting guidelines for scheduled cardiac catheterizations. To evaluate patient satisfaction, a 6-item survey was administered to 169 individuals undergoing cardiac catheterization. …

Impact Of Acuity-Based Assignments On The Satisfaction And Burnout Of Inpatient Rehabilitation Nurses, Madelyn Miller Smith

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Practice Innovation Projects

Background: With half of healthcare workers reporting burnout, job dissatisfaction and burnout are nursing epidemics. Staffing shortages and heavy workloads are leading dissatisfiers. Acuity-based assignments (ABAs) can predict patient needs and equitably distribute workload among nurses.
Local problem: Nurses of a 21-bed inpatient rehabilitation facility identified burnout related to workload. There was no standard practice for creating assignments, and the existing acuity measure was not rehab-specific.
Methods: An ABA tool was implemented over 12 weeks. Nurse satisfaction and burnout were measured with an abbreviated Copenhagen Burnout Inventory and the Nurse Satisfaction with the Quality of Care Scale, which were administered …

Implementation Of Vibration Anesthesia For Pain Reduction In Clients Undergoing Facial Aesthetic Procedures, Shaylee Dallager

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Practice Innovation Projects

No abstract provided.