Date of Graduation

Winter 12-12-2014

Document Access

Project/Capstone - Global access

Degree Name

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

College/School

School of Nursing and Health Professions

First Advisor

Melissa Vandeveer, PNP, CNL, PhD

Second Advisor

Mary Manaloto, RN, MS

Abstract

Early educational and discharge preparations are an advantage to patients, the interdisciplinary team, and hospital. It was determined that lack in communication and coordination among staff members led to inadequate patient teaching, therefore an educational tool that is kept at the bedside may facilitate accountability and smoother transition to home.

The aim of the project is to improve the education of patients with tracheostomies and laryngectomies, and enhance staff communication and coordination by December 2014.

Analysis methods used included Failure Mode Effects Analysis (FMEA), fishbone diagram, process map, and SWOT analysis. The social learning theory is the framework chosen for this improvement process.

In December 2013, an FMEA was conducted, and beginning in mid-April of this year, the concept was introduced in the huddle meetings; a survey was launched to assess the necessity of this tool at the bedside. The project was implemented at the beginning of June.

Although more data is still needed to determine if this tool had an impact to the readmission rates of this specific population in the microsystem, overall positive results were noted in regards to patients’ and families’ education and readiness for discharge. The discharge process for these patients was significantly shortened. Less anxiety from patients was noted by the clinical staff involved in their care, with the patient education process reportedly being improved.

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