Date of Conferral

12-2-2024

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Corinne Wheeler

Abstract

The goal of this initiative is to increase provider confidence, improve patient outcomes, and foster constructive societal change by teaching healthcare professionals how to prescribe benzodiazepines safely and effectively. Many doctors prescribe benzodiazepines to treat anxiety, sleeplessness, and seizures, but using them comes with serious hazards, such as dependence, withdrawal, and overdosing, particularly when taken with other drugs like opioids. Taking these concerns into consideration, my study intends to close gaps in prescribing practices by creating an evidence-based education program specifically designed for healthcare professionals. The course emphasizes effective prescribing techniques, methods for weaning chronic users, and benzodiazepine substitutes such psychotherapy and non-benzodiazepine pharmaceutical treatments. It uses interactive elements, including as case discussions and simulations, to promote peer learning and real-world application. By lowering the stigma attached to substance abuse and mental health issues, enhancing patient safety, and tackling public health issues like the opioid crisis, the project also aims to promote constructive social change. This program aims to improve care quality, advance health equity, and support the wellbeing of individuals and communities by equipping healthcare professionals with the information and resources they need to administer benzodiazepines appropriately. My dedication to filling up clinical knowledge gaps, assisting medical professionals in their work, and promoting systemic changes in pharmaceutical safety and mental health treatment is reflected in this effort.

Download

Included in

Nursing Commons

Share

 
COinS