Date of Graduation

Fall 12-15-2023

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

Dr. Nicole Beamish, DNP, APRN, PHN, CNL

Abstract

This quality improvement project aims to improve nurse education about Lovenox prophylaxis to reduce the risk of pulmonary emboli – post-discharge – amongst high-risk postpartum women who underwent vaginal and cesarean deliveries on the family baby unit. This project took place in a Family Baby/Postpartum Unit at Hospital SC. This unit has a total of 25 beds with an increased prevalence of pulmonary embolism following cesarean delivery. Nurses were given anonymous pre- and post-survey questionnaires and provided educational sessions with distributed handouts. A unit needs assessment was conducted using the 5 P’s. Out of the 72 nurses on the staff roster, 25 nurses participated in the study (n = 34.7% response rate). All 25 nurses participated throughout the study, allowing greater insight into the nurses’ perspectives. Nurses were given edible incentives after completion of the pre-and post-surveys and education to encourage active participation. We assessed the nurses’ comfort levels and knowledge about the unit’s Lovenox Prophylaxis policy. The surveys revealed a need for an annual Lovenox refresher course. Results showed that most nurses (n= 60%) knew why Lovenox was used in their unit, and (n= 76%) were comfortable administering and monitoring Lovenox but stated they had not had a refresher course since nursing school. Most nurses were open to a Lovenox refresher course. After the education intervention, results showed an improvement in nurse knowledge about the unit’s Lovenox prophylaxis policy and use. Nurses reported benefitting from re-education and disclosed being more inclined to witness patient self-administration more than once before discharge. Improvements in patient medication adherence and reduced risk of PE are to follow. This project helps support the hospital’s initiative to implement Lovenox prevention. Sustainability is dependent on the nurses’ willingness to participate in annual reeducation and training in the Family Baby Unit. Future recommendations should be considered.

Download

Share

COinS