Date of Graduation

Winter 12-18-2015

Document Access

Project/Capstone - Global access

Degree Name

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

College/School

School of Nursing and Health Professions

First Advisor

Dr. Danijela Pavlic

Second Advisor

Dr. Chenit Ong-Flaherty

Abstract

Patient satisfaction scores regarding how effectively staff educates patients about possible side effects of new medications are not consistently above the national average at a large metropolitan hospital in California (MHC). The results of these patient satisfaction scores shed light on the need for evidence-based strategies to improve a patient’s perception of the medication education provided to them. The basis of the incentive to improve care is ultimately increased safety and better patient outcomes. From the Root Cause Analysis, it became apparent that a few common barriers need to be addressed, but the one most frequently reported by everyone that is the most crucial and easiest to address is the memory deficit issue. The focus of the author’s project is a combination of oral instructions supplemented by the distribution of a clear, simplified leaflet of medication information. The process of change being facilitated is intended to assist the bedside nurse to perform at the optimal level of practice where quality improvement and patient satisfaction are key to better patient outcomes. Following meetings with leadership, the author created his own comprehensive but very easily understandable medication information document in the “SAID the Med” format. He felt it was important because it streamlines, simplifies, and organizes the process already used by providers when educating patients. As part of a redesigned intervention using a different document provided by the pharmacy department, pharmacy’s leaflet was then used with patients as part of the education process. While initial results were affirming, the MSN student’s project is a continual process of performance improvement that requires heightened interdisciplinary education between management, nursing, pharmacy, evidence-based research, and patients over an extended period of time to successfully implement and sustain the best change for the topic.

Keywords: medication education, side effects, performance improvement, patient satisfaction, patient outcomes, SAID the Med, interdisciplinary communication

Comments

Poster complementing project can be found at end of document. The author may be reached at Kylewoolley@gmail.com

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