Date of Conferral

5-14-2025

Date of Award

May 2025

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Corinne Romano

Abstract

This doctoral project was a staff education initiative to improve nursing knowledge through a standardized, evidence-based teaching discharge protocol for congestive heart failure (CHF) patients in emergency room (ER) observation units. CHF is a leading cause of hospital readmissions, often due to gaps in discharge education. Strengthening nursing clinical expertise by improving knowledge through standardized education supports effective teaching and promotes patient adherence. This project sought to answer the following practice-focused question: Does implementing staff education on CHF discharge practices result in an increase in staff knowledge? A PowerPoint presentation was created based on the analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation (ADDIE) model and delivered via live education sessions. Pre- and post-education surveys were included to assess the effects of the staff education. Surveys were analyzed using descriptive statistics to measure the change from presurvey to postsurvey. Participant presurvey scores were 73.5% and rose to 100% in the postsurvey, indicating notable knowledge gains. Key findings support integrating standardized discharge teaching into routine practice, emphasizing ongoing staff education. This initiative exemplifies evidence-based nursing education, supporting health equity for all patients and thereby promoting positive social change. Future recommendations to be considered include exploring the integration of digital education tools, interdisciplinary collaboration for discharge planning, and ongoing competency assessments for nursing staff.

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