Date of Graduation

Fall 12-16-2022

Document Access

Project/Capstone - Global access

Degree Name

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

College/School

School of Nursing and Health Professions

Program

MSN project

First Advisor

Scout E. Hebinck

Abstract

Problem: A nosocomial central line-associated bloodstream infection is a preventable infection that is costly and potentially fatal. In order to combat bloodstream infections chlorhexidine gluconate wipes have been used as antiseptic. Medical surgical units do not have accessible CHG for bathing purposes. In addition, the staff lacks knowledge of how to use CHG wipes. The current standard bathing practice on this unit consists of using soap and water or disposable washcloths spontaneously without a predetermined time. The aim of this quality improvement project is to educate the registered nurses (RNs) and certified nurse assistants (CNAs) on the benefits of daily CHG bathing and the method in which it is used.

Context: The quality improvement project takes place in an adult medical-surgical unit in a hospital in the San Francisco Bay Area including 274 beds. This microsystem has seven nurses working in each wing with a total of 14 on the unit. The target population is adults in a medical-surgical unit and families or caregivers.

Interventions: In order to provide staff education on the process and benefits of daily CHG bathing to reduce the risk of developing CLABSI, educational posters were used to convey the information. Measures: In order to measure the existing knowledge of the staff, paper-based surveys were distributed in the medical-surgical unit. The staff was also given the option of an online survey via a QR code. A total of 16 nurses and one certified nursing assistant completed the paper survey. The questionnaire included a total of four multiple-choice questions and one open-ended question.

Results: The expected outcome of this quality improvement project is an increase in understanding surrounding the process of CHG bathing. Future recommendations include reinforcing education. Conclusions: Additional educational programs should be implemented for staff to improve the use of CHG bathing in the medical-surgical unit and reduce the risk of CLABSI.

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