Date of Conferral

1-14-2026

Date of Award

January 2026

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Corinne Romano

Abstract

The project is a staff education initiative designed to improve the knowledge of psychiatric mental health clinicians regarding fall prevention. The gap in practice was the staff’s knowledge deficit in fall prevention. The staff’s knowledge deficits result in inconsistent prevention strategies. The practice-focused question guiding the project was: Among psychiatric mental health clinicians, does participation in an evidence-based fall prevention education program increase knowledge of fall prevention strategies as compared to pre- to post-education? The purpose of the project was to improve clinician knowledge of psychiatric-specific fall risks and evidence-based prevention strategies. The analytical strategies utilized in the project included pre- and post-surveys assessing knowledge (multiple-choice) and self-reported confidence (Likert scale 1–5). The major product for the project was the implementation of structured staff education programs, which included the use of PowerPoint presentations, brief booster sessions, and interactive modules. The utilized descriptive statistics measured changes in the staff’s knowledge. Results showed a mean knowledge score increase from 3.2/5 to 4.6/5, and confidence scores increased from a mean of 2.8 to 4.4, indicating measurable gains in their understanding of fall prevention strategies. Recommendations included integrating the programs into the orientation of new staff and periodic refreshers for the current staff. The project supports the utilization of evidence-based nursing practice, promotes patient safety, and supports equity, inclusion, and diversity through standardizing.

Included in

Nursing Commons

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