Date of Conferral

8-6-2025

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Corrine Wheeler

Abstract

This quality improvement project is a staff education initiative designed to address psychotropic medication noncompliance in an outpatient behavioral health clinic setting. The project arose from the identification of a significant gap in staff knowledge and confidence related to medication adherence strategies. Medication noncompliance in psychiatric care is associated with symptom exacerbation, increased hospitalization, and poorer patient outcomes, making it a critical issue in nursing practice. The practice-focused question guiding the project was: In an outpatient behavioral health clinic setting, does implementing a structured staff education program improve staff knowledge and confidence in addressing medication noncompliance? Analytical strategies included a review and synthesis of research and nonresearch evidence using validated appraisal tools. I collected evidence from 10 scholarly sources. A stakeholder analysis; strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats analysis; and translation planning tool supported the project’s alignment and feasibility. Participants’ pretest scores averaged 48%, while their posttest scores rose to an average of 85.2%, reflecting a normalized learning gain of 77%. Staff reported higher confidence in applying motivational interviewing techniques, culturally responsive care, and adherence support strategies following the education program. Key products included a staff education checklist, instructional materials, and an evaluation plan. The project holds important implications for nursing practice by empowering staff to apply evidence-based strategies in medication adherence counseling. The project supports positive social change by improving mental health outcomes among underserved populations and aligning with culturally tailored content and a patient-centered framework.

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