Date of Conferral
12-1-2025
Date of Award
December 2025
Degree
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
School
Nursing
Advisor
Dr. Barbara Barrett
Abstract
Summary This Doctor of Nursing Practice project was conducted to examine a quality improvement initiative that sought to address metabolic syndrome screening consistency for veterans on antipsychotic medications at a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs health system located in the Midwest region of the United States. The project centered on whether the quality improvement program assessing compliance with the current metabolic syndrome screening process reflects increased early detection of metabolic syndrome to prevent cardiovascular complications. Data collection involved comprehensive chart reviews of 50 veterans’ records. The data collected were analyzed using a specially designed quality improvement initiative assessment form developed from eight survey items, which were components of the existing initiative. Results demonstrate notable compliance variations across screening protocols, particularly regarding enrollment procedures, electronic reminder systems, and abnormal result follow-up protocols. Data analysis revealed critical screening inconsistencies that could potentially delay early metabolic risk detection among veterans. Recommended interventions include enhanced provider education programs, streamlined electronic reminder systems, documentation simplification, and strengthened accountability frameworks. These strategic improvements aim to facilitate earlier metabolic syndrome identification, thereby reducing cardiovascular risk factors within this vulnerable population. The findings hold substantial implications for nursing practice, highlighting nurses’ essential roles in patient education, clinical observation, and advocacy and contribute to positive social change through addressing healthcare disparities affecting veterans, promoting greater equity and inclusion in healthcare delivery systems.
Recommended Citation
Eke, Joy Nneka, "Metabolic Screening in Veterans on Antipsychotics Mood Stabilizer" (2025). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 18596.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/18596
