Date of Conferral

10-16-2025

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Dr. Barbara Niedz

Abstract

This Doctor of Nursing Practice project was an educational initiative to provide comprehensive central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) prevention education program for staff working in an intensive care unit (ICU). CLABSIs pose a significant threat to patient safety, contributing to increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs, with annual expenditures estimated at $300 million to $2.3 billion and mortality rates ranging from 10% to 30%. Despite existing protocols, the project site facility experienced persistent CLABSI rates. The purpose of the project was to provide a comprehensive educational program to ICU staff members on the unit. The practice-focused question guiding this project was: Does a comprehensive CLABSI prevention education program, including hands-on skills training, improve nurses’ knowledge and skills in CLABSI prevention? After the educational program, data were collected through pre- and posttests, skill competency evaluations, and qualitative feedback surveys. Quantitative analysis revealed an increase in participants’ knowledge scores (t =-8.206 (39), p<.001), while qualitative insights highlighted areas for refinement with comprehensive strategies. Key findings underscored the program’s effectiveness in enhancing staff competency, with 24% deemed fully competent and targeted support identified for 16% requiring further development. Recommendations included increasing education and training on central line care, especially during new nurse on-boarding, addressing staff-identified barriers to CLABSI bundle compliance, such as ensuring proper staffing and promoting accountability. This initiative not only advances nursing practice by reducing preventable harm but also promotes equitable care delivery, aligning with broader public health goals and fostering positive social change.

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