First Advisor

Finn, Cris

Second Advisor

Gilbert, Marcia

College

Rueckert-Hartman College for Health Professions

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice

School

Loretto Heights School of Nursing

Document Type

Thesis - Open Access

Number of Pages

84 pages

Abstract

Abstract Pressure ulcers have been identified as a major source of morbidity, contributing to poor patient outcomes and increased healthcare cost (Bergquist-Beringer et aI., 2009). The significance to nursing practice lies in the fact that pressure ulcers are preventable with appropriate nursing care and interventions (Benbow). According to Banks, Gilmartin and Fink (2010), nurses caring for patients "in the rural setting have faced a unique challenge in maintaining competency" (p. EI), particularly when encountering uncommon complications. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a focused, multifaceted educational intervention on nursing knowledge related to prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers in the rural setting. Because individuals learn differently, a multifaceted educational approach was utilized to ensure that the educational methods implemented were suitable for those with a variety of learning styles. Rogers' (1995) Diffusion ofInnovations Theory provided the theoretical framework. A pretest/post-test intervention quasi-experimental study design was utilized to measure outcomes at three rural health facilities (one hospital and two long term care facilities) in a western state. Nurse paliicipants in the study completed an online learning module from the National Database for Nursing Quality Indicators organization. Additionally, nurses attended a skills lab where hands-on competency was assessed in the areas of pressure ulcer staging and dressing changes. A nurse champion from one ofthe care areas acted as a pressure ulcer expert, and assisted with the skills stations. Educational posters, reference binders, and reference pocket cards were provided on each unit for the purpose of self-teaching. A pretest knowledge assessment was administered prior to the intervention and a post-test was administered during the post intervention period. A 5-point Likel1 Scale was used to assess level of confidence in caring for patient with or at risk for pressure ulcers at the same intervals. Demographics were collected and data were analyzed using t-tests and tests of association. The study demonstrated a statistically significant increase in nursing confidence related to the assessment and care of pressure ulcers in the post intervention period.

Date of Award

Spring 2012

Location (Creation)

Colorado (state); Denver (county); Denver (inhabited place)

Rights Statement

All content in this Collection is owned by and subject to the exclusive control of Regis University and the authors of the materials. It is available only for research purposes and may not be used in violation of copyright laws or for unlawful purposes. The materials may not be downloaded in whole or in part without permission of the copyright holder or as otherwise authorized in the “fair use” standards of the U.S. copyright laws and regulations.

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