Date of Conferral

8-6-2025

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Theresa Parenteau

Abstract

Summary This quality improvement initiative aimed to enhance stroke knowledge through an evidence-based staff education program for medical-surgical emergency department (ED) overflow nurses. The impetus for the project stemmed from recognition of the need for enhancing prompt response and communication during acute stroke events. Variations in stroke knowledge among nursing staff contributed to delays in recognizing and responding to stroke symptoms. The practice-focused question guiding this Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project addressed whether the implementation of an evidence-based stroke education program could improve nursing knowledge. The purpose of the project was to evaluate whether an evidence-based stroke education program could improve staff nurses’ knowledge of stroke signs, emergency response, and the use of the balance, eyes, face, arm, speech, time (BEFAST) mnemonic. Fifteen ED overflow nurses participated using anonymous numeric coding to ensure confidentiality. Tests were administered through an online platform, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics to evaluate knowledge improvements. Two separate 30-minute educational sessions were delivered that focused on BEFAST, stroke education, recognition, treatment protocols, and nursing responses. Participant scores showed a significant knowledge increase from 66% to 91% postintervention. Conclusions supported the effectiveness of targeted stroke education, with limitations of small sample size, single-site design, and time constraints. This project promotes positive social change by advancing health equity, reducing disparities in stroke care for underserved populations, and fostering a culture of safety through accessible and consistent nurse education.

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