Date of Graduation

Fall 12-15-2017

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. Margaret Levine

Abstract

Abstract

The aim of this project is to improve the care for patients experiencing pregnancy loss in the emergency department (ED). Objectives are to enhance understanding of staff about the patients’ experience and their knowledge on how to best care for emotional needs, thus improving quality of patient care, work satisfaction, knowledge, confidence and comfort levels, while decreasing experienced stress. The project was implemented in a midsized community hospital with 117 beds, which discharged 74 patients with “interrupted pregnancies” over the previous year from the ED. The project was directed toward nurses, doctors, care partners, chaplains, and social workers. The implementation method included introductions at shift and unit meetings, and delivering an educational module to three social workers, two ED nurses and a chaplain. Using pre-existing materials and staff input, a PowerPoint presentation was created. It described the development of a position paper on the care of pregnancy loss in the ED and suggestions for implementation of some of the multidisciplinary guidelines posted in the paper and translation into best practices. Implementation proved challenging due to an external disaster affecting the hospital. A pre- and post-intervention questionnaire showed an increase in confidence and knowledge levels and the need for pregnancy loss specific training. Given the positive response to this first PDSA cycle, the recommendation is to continue offering the presentation to ED personnel.

Keywords: pregnancy loss, education, emergency department, patient experience, staff satisfaction

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