Analytical, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Techniques and Equipment Commons^™

Closing The Loop: Strengthening Cauti Prevention With Urinary Catheter Management, Erika N. Braun

Master's Projects and Capstones

Objective: Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) are among the most common preventable healthcare-associated infections and are associated with significant patient harm and increased healthcare costs. Baseline assessment across five adult cardiovascular and critical care units within a community-based acute care hospital identified four CAUTI events during the first half of 2026 and revealed important nursing knowledge deficits related to bladder scanning protocols and urinary catheter management practices. Aim: This Quality Improvement (QI) Project aimed to improve nursing knowledge of evidence-based bladder scanning protocols and urinary catheter management practices through targeted educational interventions implemented over a 10-week period, with …

Integrating Music Therapy Into Post-Surgical Care: A Quality Improvement Strategy For Reducing Post-Operative Anxiety, Yosdania Hernandez Benitez

Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Project Abstract

Integrating Music Therapy into Post-Surgical Care: A Quality Improvement Strategy for Reducing Post-Operative Anxiety

Purpose

This quality improvement (QI) project aimed to reduce postoperative anxiety among adult patients after general surgery in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) by 30% using nurse-led music therapy in an ambulatory surgical center.

Results

Mean VAS-A scores decreased from 6.9 (SD = 0.5) pre-intervention to 4.0 (SD = 0.5) post-intervention, representing a 2.9-point (41.9%) reduction in anxiety and exceeding the project's target of 30%. Nurse adherence to the intervention protocol was 100%, and the mean patient satisfaction score was 4.6/5.0. All 100 patients completed both …

Bridging The Gap In Science Research: Preparing Students For College- Level Research In The Sciences, Victoria Helwig, Yaoguang Li

UConn Library Presentations

Many first-year students enter college unprepared to fully engage with scientific literature and academic library resources. Drawing on experiences from academic librarians working with STEM students, this session explores common gaps in science research skills, including navigating databases, identifying scholarly sources, and understanding the structure of scientific literature. Participants will be introduced to practical strategies and classroom-ready activities to better prepare students for college-level research. Discussion questions: What science research skills do students struggle with most when entering college? How can high school instruction better support these skills? Where can librarians and educators collaborate to support student success?

Exercise Prescription For Adults With Prediabetes In The Primary Care Clinic, Katherine W. Hall

Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Manuscripts

Prediabetes affects approximately one in three adults in the United States, with an estimated 10% progressing to Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) annually. Despite strong evidence supporting exercise as a first-line intervention to prevent disease progression, most patients in primary care settings do not receive structured physical activity counseling. This evidence-based project (EBP) aims to address this gap by implementing a standardized protocol to assess baseline physical activity levels and deliver individualized exercise prescriptions to adults with prediabetes in the primary care clinic.

Eligible participants, defined by HbA1c values between 5.70% and 6.49%, were identified during routine primary care visits …

Advocateai: A Human-In-The-Loop Artificial Intelligence Platform To Improve Diagnostic Trajectories And Patient Empowerment In Chronic Pelvic Pain, Gayatri Bhanot, Ashley Kochans

InnovateHER Meeting 2026

Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) affects up to 27% of women globally^1, yet diagnosis takes 4 – 12 years on average² — a crisis driven by healthcare fragmentation, systemic gender bias, and a 62% rate of symptom dismissal by healthcare providers³. AdvocateAI is a human-in-the-loop AI platform designed to empower patients to accelerate their own diagnostic journey. By synthesizing fragmented medical records and patient-reported symptoms, the tool creates structured clinical summaries and personalized advocacy scripts. Here, we present our findings from discovery, including a landscape analysis of available CPP treatments, a prototype co-designed by patients, and custom …

Quality Improvement (Qi) Project Aimed At Reducing Unnecessary Antibiotic Usage Among Older Adult Patients By Addressing Inappropriate Antibiotic Prescribing In Primary And Long-Term Care Settings, Pamela M. Thomas

Seton Hall University Dissertations and Theses (ETDs)

Antibiotic overuse among older adults remains a significant patient safety and public health concern. Recent national data indicate that approximately 30%–50% of outpatient antibiotic prescriptions may be unnecessary, particularly for viral or self-limiting conditions (Chua et al., 2021). Antimicrobial resistance has been associated with more than 1.27 million deaths globally (Murray et al., 2022). This quality improvement project evaluated a multifaceted antimicrobial stewardship intervention in primary and long-term care settings. Baseline review of 167 antibiotic cases revealed 37.1% were inappropriate or questionable, and 28.7% lacked adequate diagnostic documentation. The intervention incorporated provider education, electronic health record decision-support tools, audit and …

From Evidence To Practice: Improving Diabetic Patient Outcomes By Increasing Statin Utilization, Elizabeth Mcfalls

Evidence-Based Practice Project Reports

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention in patients with diabetes is essential, as heart disease remains the leading cause of death within this population (American Diabetes Association, n.d.). The purpose of this evidence-based project is to improve patient outcomes by enhancing adherence to statin therapy. A thorough literature review yielded 246 pieces of moderate-to-high-quality evidence; of these, eight articles were appraised in detail and selected for project inclusion. The strongest evidence identified four meaningful interventions. Thus, a multimodal approach was indicated for this project. This included addressing barriers to therapy, creating practice nudges, implementing a shared decision-making (SDM) tool, and utilizing clinical …

Implementation Of A Planned Extubation Nurse-Led Safety Bundle In A Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit, Broderick Sutton

Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Project Abstract

Purpose: To implement and evaluate a nurse-led planned extubation safety bundle designed to improve nurse preparedness, interdisciplinary communication, workflow consistency, and confidence during planned extubation events in a pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU).

Background: Planned extubation in critically ill pediatric cardiac patients requires effective interdisciplinary coordination. Variability in nurse preparation, communication, and knowledge of sedation pharmacokinetics contributed to workflow inefficiencies and patient safety concerns. Evidence supports standardized nurse-led protocols to improve extubation readiness and reduce practice variability.

Methodology: A prospective pre-post quality improvement project was conducted over eight weeks in a pediatric CICU. The intervention included a nurse-led planned …

Evaluating The Efficacy Of The Confusion Assessment Method For The Icu (Cam-Icu) In Reducing Length Of Stay Among Critically Ill Patients: A Scoping Review, John Simmons, Fay Nelson, Keith Hunt, Lindsey Waller, Tracy Mcclinton Dnp, Aprn, Agacnp-Bc, Hget-C, Ebp-C

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose/Background

Delirium is a prevalent complication among critically ill patients in intensive care units (ICUs), associated with increased mortality, prolonged hospital stays, and higher healthcare costs. The Confusion Assessment Method for the ICU (CAM-ICU) is a validated tool designed to aid in the early identification of delirium; however, systematic screening remains low among healthcare professionals. This scoping review aims to evaluate the efficacy of the CAM-ICU in identifying delirium and its potential impact on reducing ICU length of stay.

Method

            This scoping review began by establishing inclusion criteria to ensure the results were applicable to the researchers’ patient population, including …

Medication-Assisted Treatment For Patients With Substance Use Disorder And Depression: A Scoping Review, Josiane Deguenon Bsn-Rn, Elisabeth Fritz Bsn-Rn, Jesse Jean Bsn-Rn, Tucker Mckinney Bsn-Rn, Laura Reed Dnp, Aprn, Fnp-Bc, Cne, Fnap

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose/Background

Substance use disorder (SUD) frequently co-occurs with depression and increases relapse risk and healthcare utilization. Although medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based intervention for SUD, outcomes for adults with co-occurring depression remain inconsistently reported due to variation in study designs, treatment settings, and measures. This scoping review examines evidence on MAT use among adults with co-occurring depression and SUD and summarized reported clinical and healthcare utilization outcomes.

Methods

From August 2023 to November 2025, a scoping literature review was conducted on PubMed/MEDLINE, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library, using MeSH search terms and Boolean operators to link the concepts defined …

Nurse-Driven Infusion Protocols In Diabetic Ketoacidosis: A Scoping Review, Nicholas Morrell Pierce Msn, Rn, Cen, Ccrn, Mary Cassandra Scott Bsn, Rn, Ccrn, Cen, Alvertis Demetreis Warren Bsn, Rn, Ccrn, Tracy Mcclinton Dnp, Aprn, Agacnp-Bc, Hget-C, Ebp-C

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose/Background

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a high-risk acute emergency requiring timely insulin titration, intensive monitoring, and coordinated interdisciplinary care. Traditionally, management relies on provider-driven insulin infusion adjustments, which may introduce delays and workflow inefficiencies. Emerging nurse-driven insulin infusion protocols aim to standardize care, improve safety, and enhance clinical efficiency. The purpose of this scoping review was to evaluate existing evidence comparing nurse-driven versus provider-driven insulin infusion protocols in the management of adult patients with DKA.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. From August 2023 through November 2025, …

Evaluating The Impact Of Glp-1 Receptor Agonists On Perioperative Aspiration Risk: The Role Of Preoperative Fasting Duration, Caitlin Maureen Carter Bsn, Rn, Adam Wade Johnson Bsn, Rn, Allison Whitney Jones Bsn, Rn, Joseph Kaesberg Bsn, Rn, Kelly Maura Watson Bsn, Rn, Bobby Bellflower Dnsc, Nnp-Bc, Faan, Faanp, Fnap

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose/Background

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are increasingly prescribed for diabetes and obesity due to their metabolic benefits; however, these medications delay gastric emptying, raising concern for increased residual content (RGC) and aspiration risk during anesthesia. Current perioperative fasting and medication management guidelines for patients taking GLP-1 RAs remain inconsistent, creating uncertainty for anesthesia providers. This scoping review aimed to synthesize current evidence on the relationship between GLP-1 RA use and perioperative gastric safety, with particular focus on fasting duration and aspiration risk.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Searches were performed using the …

Remimazolam As A Sedative For Endoscopic Procedures: A Scoping Review, Hamzha Aysheh, Megan Henderson, Megan Hinkle, Sara Holton, Spencer Turner, Dwayne Accardo Dnp, Ccrn, Faana

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose/Background

Propofol is commonly used for procedural sedation during endoscopic procedures because of its rapid onset and short duration; however, its use is frequently associated with adverse effects such as hypotension, hypoxemia, respiratory depression, bradycardia, and injection site pain. As diagnostic endoscopic procedures continue to increase, particularly among older and medically complex patients, there is a growing need for sedative agents that provide effective sedation while minimizing perioperative risk. Remimazolam, a novel ultra–short-acting benzodiazepine metabolized by tissue esterases, has demonstrated favorable hemodynamic stability and a reduced adverse effect profile in recent literature. The purpose of this evidence-based quality improvement project …

Discharge Education Bundles And Evaluating The Effect On Readmission And Satisfaction Rates: A Scoping Review, Jane Campo Bsn, Rn, Charlotte Edwards Bsn, Rn, Mary Catherine Hall Bsn, Rn, Sarah Moore Bsn, Rn, Allison Walker Bsn, Rn, Tracy Mcclinton Dnp, Aprn, Agacnp-Bc, Hget-C, Ebp-C

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose/Background

Transitioning children with a chronic medical condition from hospital to home is a critical and difficult process, leaving many families feeling anxious and unprepared. Nationally, 1 in 7 pediatric patients are readmitted within thirty days, making readmission rates an important quality indicator with both clinical and financial implications. To address these challenges, multiple discharge bundles have been developed; however, their effectiveness has not been consistently evaluated. The aim of this project is to summarize the current literature and highlight its positive outcomes, with the intention of promoting further research, reducing 30-day readmission rates, and increasing parental satisfaction (Shermont et …

Impact Of Nitrous Oxide Analgesia On Labor Experience, Kierra Jones Rn, Bsn, Elyzabeth Morales Rn, Bsn, Lanitra Ray Rn, Bsn, Rhonda Johnson Dnp, Cne, Cnm, Facnm

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose/Background

Nitrous oxide (N₂O) has re-emerged in the United States as a labor analgesia option that supports mobility, autonomy, and patient-centered care. As nurses increasingly support low-intervention and physiologic birth approaches, understanding the effectiveness and safety of nitrous oxide for low-risk laboring individuals is essential. This scoping review examines current evidence on nitrous oxide use during labor, focusing on maternal pain management, satisfaction, and neonatal outcomes to inform evidence-based nursing and midwifery practice.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted using PubMed, CINAHL Complete, and the Cochrane Library between September and October 2023. Inclusion criteria consisted of English-language studies published within …

The Effects Of Sugammadex Vs. Neostigmine On Intraoperative Heart Rate In Pediatric Patients Under Two Years: A Scoping Review, Saumel Abston, Jackson Cobb, Elle Dean, Tanner Dillard, Pauline Dinh, Dwayne Accardo Dnp, Crna, Faana, Margaret Harvey Phd, Aprn, Acnp-Bc, Chfn, Fhrs

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose/Background

Neuromuscular blockade (NMB) reversal is a critical component of anesthesia care, particularly in infants under two years of age who have immature autonomic regulation and heightened vagal tone, predisposing them to bradycardia. Neostigmine, the traditional reversal agent, is associated with parasympathomimetic effects such as bradycardia, requiring anticholinergic co- administration. Sugammadex, a selective relaxant binding agent, offers rapid and predictable reversal of aminosteroidal neuromuscular blocking agents with less cholinergic side effects. Although the safety profile of sugammadex is well established in older pediatric populations, limited evidence exists regarding its cardiovascular effects in infants under two years of age.

Methods

A …

Improving Access And Early Identification Of Anxiety Disorders Through Annual Gad-7 Screening In High Schools: A Scoping Review, Joshua Richard Yumul Bsn, Rn, Cindy Thao Msn, Rn, Justin Doyle Borden Bsn, Rn, Rebecca Lizette Johnston Bsn, Rn, Bobby Bellflower Dnsc, Nnp-Bc, Faan, Faanp, Fnap

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Background: Anxiety disorders affect nearly one-third of adolescents in the United States, yet many cases remain undiagnosed due to inconsistent screening and limited access to school-based mental health services. The Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7) questionnaire is a validated screening tool, but its routine use in high school settings is not well established.

Purpose: This scoping review aimed to synthesize current evidence on the use of the GAD-7 in high schools to support early identification of anxiety disorders and improve access to mental health care.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PsycINFO, ERIC, PubMed, CINAHL, and Google Scholar. …

Motivational Interviewing Vs. Educational Handouts For Caregiver Smoking Cessation In Pediatric Asthma Patients: A Scoping Review, Michael Stefano, Hannah Marsh, Tracy Mcclinton, Dnp, Aprn, Ag-Acnp-Bc, Hget-C, Ebp-C

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Secondhand smoke exposure can significantly worsen asthma outcomes in pediatric patients, leading to increased exacerbations and healthcare utilization. Caregivers can play a critical role in reducing secondhand smoke exposure, however sustained smoking cessation can be challenging to achieve. Two powerful healthcare interventions to assist in caregiver smoking cessation include motivational interviewing and educational handouts, however their compared effectiveness has not yet been fully reviewed. This scoping review compared the effectiveness of motivational interviewing and educational handouts in promoting smoking cessation among caregivers of children hospitalized for asthma exacerbations over the course of 90 days.

Intraoperative Aspiration Risk Reduction Of Diabetic Patients Through Gastric Ultrasound: A Scoping Review, Dakota Sellers Bsn, Rn, Kristy Speight Bsn, Rn, Ginger Chastain Bsn, Rn, Tyler Stone Bsn, Rn, Claudia Bursi Bsn, Rn, Laura Reed Dnp, Aprn, Fnp-Bc, Cne, Fnap, Margaret Harvey Phd, Acnp-Bc, Fhrs

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose/Background

Patients with diabetes mellitus are significantly more prone to delayed gastric emptying, which can increase their risk for aspiration events in the operating room despite following standard fasting guidelines set by the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA). Using point-of-care gastric ultrasound, trained providers can quickly and accurately evaluate gastric volumes and risk-stratify patients based on these findings. However, these methods have not been clearly assessed in the diabetic population. The purpose of this scoping review is to map the existing evidence on the use of gastric ultrasound findings among adult patients with diabetes undergoing anesthesia.

Methods

A scoping review …

Dexmedetomidine As An Adjuvant In Intrathecal Anesthesia Vs. Opioids - Evaluating Adverse Events: A Scoping Review, Autumn Holloman Bsn, Rn, Paige Blackstock Bsn, Rn, Rasmia Ibrahim Bsn, Rn, Chase Logan Bsn, Rn, Hunter Turner Bsn, Rn, Dwayna Accardo Dnp. Crna, Faana, Laura Reed Dnp, Aprn, Fnp-Bc, Cne, Fnap

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose/Background 

Spinal anesthesia is widely used in surgical practice because it provides effective anesthesia and analgesia while reducing the need for intravenous anesthesia. Opioids are commonly used as intrathecal adjuvants; however, their use is associated with adverse effects such as pruritus, postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), urinary retention, and respiratory depression. Dexmedetomidine, a selective α2-adrenergic agonist, has gained attention as an alternative to opioids due to its sedative and analgesic properties without the opioid side effect profile. This scoping review evaluates current evidence comparing intrathecal Dexmedetomidine and opioids as adjuvants to spinal anesthesia in adult surgical patients.

Methods

A scoping …

Mortality Risk Comparison Of Doacs And Warfarin In Geriatric Adults With Dementia And Atrial Fibrillation, Laraya Gunter Bsn, Rn, Mariah Cloud Bsn, Rn, Tracy Mcclinton Dnp, Aprn, Agacnp-Bc, Hget-C, Ebp-C

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose/Background

Atrial fibrillation and dementia frequently coexist in older adults, creating complex challenges for anticoagulation management. Although anticoagulation is recommended to reduce thromboembolic risk in atrial fibrillation, current clinical guidelines lack dementia specific recommendations. Resulting in uncertainty regarding optimal therapy in this population. The purpose of this scoping review was to examine and synthesize current evidence comparing mortality risk and adverse events associated with direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) versus warfarin in adults age 65 and older with atrial fibrillation and dementia.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted using PRISMA-ScR methodology. Peer-reviewed articles published between 2019 and 2023 were identified through …

Optimizing Glycemic Control In Type Ii Diabetes: Continuous Glucose Monitoring : A Scoping Review, Sarah Poe, Bsn, Rn, Bailey Li, Bsn, Rn, Tracy Mcclinton, Dnp, Aprn, Ag-Acnp-Bc, Hget-C, Ebp-C

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose/Background

Individuals with Type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) experience increased risk of cardiovascular disease and higher mortality rates relative to non-diabetic populations. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) enables more precise analysis of glucose patterns and trends compared to conventional self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG). CGM provides frequent measurements and generate meaningful metrics, such as time in range (TIR), time above range (TAR), and time below range (TBR), allowing evaluation of glucose stability and variability. Despite these advantages, evidence comparing CGM and SMBG remains inconsistent. This scoping review aims to evaluate how CGM compares with SMBG across reported outcomes, including TIR, TAR, …

Evaluating The Screening And Referral Process For The Use Of Phq-9 Screening Tool In Middle-School Aged Students: A Scoping Review, Kaythi Soe, Msn, Pmhnp-Bc, Fnp-Bc, Margaret Harvey Phd, Acnp-Bc, Fhrs, Sharon Little Dnp, Fnp-Bc

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

No abstract provided.

Home-Based Vs Clinic-Based Stool Testing For Detecting Early Cancer Markers: A Scoping Review, S. Elizabeth Brock, Jacqueline Giles, Sydney James, Cha'landria Mccall, Bobby Bellflower Dnsc, Nnp-Bc-Faanp, Fnap, Faan

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose/Background 

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a significant public health concern in the United States, with screening rates below national targets due to persistent socioeconomic and structural barriers, particularly among underserved populations. Stool-based screening modalities offer accessible alternatives to colonoscopy, and emerging evidence suggests that home-based delivery models may improve screening uptake; however, implementation strategies vary and comparisons between home-based and clinic-based approaches remain limited. This scoping review examines current evidence on strategies that support CRC screening uptake, with a focus on stool-based modalities, including fecal immunochemical testing (FIT), fecal occult blood testing (FOBT), and multitarget stool DNA testing (mDNA), and …

How Does Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Cbt) And Antipsychotics Compare To Antipsychotics Alone Impact Inpatient Length Of Stay: A Scoping Review, Morgan E. Johnson, Hailey M. Wade, Y'Esha V. Williams-Click, Rocquell Duncan, Laura Reed Dnp, Aprn, Fnp-Bc, Cne, Fnap

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Background

Psychosis in adults is a serious psychiatric condition that often necessitates inpatient hospitalization for stabilization and the initiation of medication. Untreated psychosis can lead to poor outcomes, including longer hospital stays, loss of occupational functioning, and a decreased quality of life. While antipsychotic medications are typically the first line of treatment, they can have severe side effects, which may lead to patients discontinuing their use. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for psychosis is an evidence-based intervention that targets maladaptive behaviors associated with the condition. CBT may improve treatment responses when used alongside antipsychotic medication. However, there is limited research on …

Moving Toward Standardization Of Breast Cancer Screening: A Scoping Review Comparing Uspstf And Acs Recommendations For Women Aged 40–74, Gerita F. Perry, Krystal D. Hester-Smith, Bobby Bellflower Dnsc, Nnp-Bc, Faan, Faanp, Fnap

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose 

To compare U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and American Cancer Society (ACS) breast cancer screening guidelines for women aged 40–74, and to recommend adopting one consistent, standardized guideline in practice. Standardization can improve care continuity, patient adherence, reduce anxiety, support early detection, and lower mortality.

Background 

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death amongst women. The USPSTF recommends biennial screening mammography for women aged 40 to 74 years. The ACS recommends an annual mammogram. Differences between the two organizations for screening emphasize the need for a common alignment to reduce breast cancer mortality. As breast …

Improving Glp-1 Ra Initiation In Primary Care Through A Paper-Based Clinical Decision Support Tool, Carissa R. Bowery, Karen Carver

Epsilon Sigma at-Large Research Conference

Title: Improving GLP-1 RA Initiation in Primary Care Through a Paper-Based Clinical Decision Support Tool

Authors: Carissa R. Bowery, MSN, FNP-C; East Tennessee State University College of Nursing. Karen M. Carver, PhD, APRN, FNP-C; East Tennessee State University College of Nursing

This quality improvement project focuses on improving evidence-based pharmacologic management of adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity through implementation of a paper-based clinical decision support (CDS) tool in primary care. The aim is to increase initiation of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) among eligible patients and improve provider adherence to current clinical guidelines.

Processes: This …

Mapping The Evidence On The Maternal–Fetal Triage Index (Mfti): A Scoping Review, Taylor Harris, Kelsey Downie, Margaret Harvey Phd, Aprn, Acnp-Bc, Chfn, Fhrs

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose/Background

Maternal morbidity and mortality remain persistent challenges in the United States, with obstetric triage serving as a critical point of entry for timely recognition and management of high-acuity maternal-fetal conditions. Despite recommendations for acuity-based triage models, many obstetric units continue to rely on non-specific emergency triage tools, such as the Emergency Severity Index (ESI), which inadequately account for pregnancy-specific physiological changes and fetal status. To address these limitations, the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses developed the Maternal-Fetal Triage Index (MFTI), a five-level obstetric-specific triage tool. Although the MFTI has been increasingly adopted in clinical practice, the …

Improving Anesthesia Provider Confidence In The Identification, Management, And Treatment Of Postoperative Delirium, Brittany M. Whistle, Charles Dustin Phelps

Scholars Week

Purpose: Postoperative Delirium (POD) is a potentially devastating complication of anesthesia that is poorly understood by clinical staff leading to poor outcomes for surgical patients. This study is meant to determine if a focused knowledge presentation accompanied by visual aids could increase anesthesia providers confidence in identifying, diagnosing, and treating Postoperative Delirium.

Methodology: Utilizing a statistical model to analyze respondents results on a standardized test administered before and after an informational presentation with visual aids on the topic of Postoperative Delirium.

Results: Results indicated a statistically significant difference between pretest and posttest scores, with a p-value of .002, t(11) = …

Dexmedetomidine (Precedex) Versus Propofol: In Patients Requiring Sedation While Mechanically Ventilated,, How Does The Use Of Dexmedetomidine (Precedex) Compared To Propofol, Affect Reintubation Within 48 Hours Post Extubation?, Kimberly Barbee, Markela Albright, Malak Amro, Evelyn Caty-Pletcher, Margaret Havey Phd, Aprn, Acnp-Bc, Chfn, Fhrs, Tracy Mcclinton Dnp, Aprn, Agacnp-Bc, Hget-C, Ebp-C

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Keywords: dexmedetomidine, propofol, reintubation, sedation2

Abstract Assignment

Background

Sedation management in the ICU plays a key role in extubation readiness and post-extubation outcomes in mechanically ventilated patients. Although both propofol and dexmedetomidine are commonly used in critical care, there is limited evidence comparing their impact on early reintubation. This quality improvement (QI) project examined whether sedative choice was associated with reintubation within 48 hours of extubation.

Methods

A retrospective QI analysis was conducted in a cohort of 38 mechanically ventilated adult patients. Patients received either propofol (n = 31) or dexmedetomidine (n = 7) prior to extubation. Reintubation within …