Date of Conferral

2-28-2025

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Margaret Harvey

Abstract

Patient aggression related to behavioral health and emotional issues is an ongoing concern in primary health care. Disruptive patient behaviors include a broad spectrum of outward conduct, from verbal violence to physical assault. The focus of the Doctor of Nursing Practice project was a quality improvement project. The purpose encompassed improving the perception of primary care nursing leaders and provider practice leadership by enhancing the current organizational policy on patient dismissal from practices. Analytical strategies included pre- and post-surveys to determine the perception of the nursing supervisors and provider practice leadership. Survey questions encompassed an understanding of the original policy, risk management involvement, available resources, executive leadership support, and consistent administration across the practices. A two-tailed, homoscedastic t test of each question indicates no statistically significant difference between the pre-and postsurvey with p values ranging from .088 to .889, all greater than the benchmark p value of .05. Changes from the pre-and postsurvey included additional clarifications to the policy, modified exhibits, and new exhibits to provide guidance and resources. Recommendations include separating the policy into three policies related to no-show appointments, disruptive behavior, and children's vaccinations. Positive social change may be fostered by increasing nursing practice goals to include providing all patients with the support they need, ensuring appropriate dismissal following state regulations, and appropriately using legal resources. Another goal includes promoting the mental health, well-being, and safety of all staff and providers.

Download

Included in

Nursing Commons

Share

 
COinS