Date of Conferral

9-16-2025

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Jossener Joseph

Abstract

In this Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project, I employed the analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation (ADDIE) model to develop and deliver an educational intervention for emergency department (ED) nurses, with a specific focus on the Mental Health Triage Scale (MHTS). The practice-focused question was: In an emergency room at a mental health facility, how does staff education on the MHTS impact knowledge levels, as measured through pre- and post-education assessments? A needs assessment identified existing knowledge gaps and inconsistencies in triage practices among ED nurses. To address the problem, I developed a 4-week hybrid training program that combined self-paced virtual modules with in-person workshops, emphasizing adult learning theory and ethical frameworks. Core topics included the structure and urgency levels of the MHTS as well as the application of moral principles in clinical decision-making. Participants’ knowledge assessment scores increased from a preintervention average of 56% to a postintervention average of 87%. A paired-sample t test confirmed that this improvement was statistically significant (p < .01). Qualitative feedback indicated enhanced confidence, improved understanding of ethical triage principles, and a reduction in anxiety in psychiatric emergency management. This intervention addressed a social justice concern by reducing stigma and inequities in psychiatric care. By promoting consistent and ethically grounded decision-making, the education project empowered nurses to deliver equitable and timely care across diverse patient populations. This MHTS education has since been integrated into routine staff training at the project site.

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