Date of Conferral

9-10-2026

Date of Award

9-10-2026

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Marilyn Losty

Abstract

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remains a significant public health concern in rural communities, where limited specialty care, geographic isolation, transportation barriers, and stigma may delay testing and entry into care. The Texas Panhandle is a geographically expansive rural region served by rural hospitals with limited resources. Although area HIV services are available, they are inconsistently utilized. Although chief nursing officers (CNOs) influence practice and care coordination, knowledge gaps regarding HIV guidelines, prevention strategies, and regional resources may limit identification, referral, and continuity of care. The purpose of this doctor of nursing practice (DNP) project was to determine whether a targeted HIV educational intervention increased knowledge and awareness among nurse leaders in the Texas Panhandle. Fourteen nurses attended the intervention. The average age of the participants was 48.15 years (SD = 7.71) with all participants (100%; N = 14) identifying as female. Participants averaged 10.14 years (SD = 5.63) in their nurse leadership role. The mean pretest knowledge score was 8.36 (SD = 1.08), and the mean posttest score was 10.00 (SD = 0.00). According to a Wilcoxon signed-rank test, the pretest and posttest scores differed significantly (z = -3.24, p < .001), indicating an increase in knowledge. A Wilcoxon signed-rank test showed a statistical difference between pretest and posttest scores across all four content areas, indicating an increase in awareness among the participants. It is hoped that the increased knowledge and awareness among the participants may translate into practice and lead to positive patient, provider, and organizational outcomes and positive social change.

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