Date of Conferral

2-11-2026

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Laurie Wetsel

Abstract

Non-adherence to antipsychotic medication among patients with schizophrenia and other severe mental illnesses is a critical issue, contributing to high rates of relapse, rehospitalization, and increased healthcare costs. Despite the necessity of these treatments, patients often struggle with compliance due to lack of insight, side effects, or complex regimens. The project aimed to evaluate how structured staff education interventions increase knowledge and confidence among healthcare providers, regarding medication adherence strategies, including the use of Long Acting Injectable (LAI) antipsychotics and the “teach-back” methods. Staff education programs typically utilize evidence-based tools, pre-and post-intervention assessments, and training sessions to enhance knowledge on medication management and patient education techniques. Key components include training on identifying nonadherence and improving therapeutic communication. Evidence suggests that staff education significantly improves knowledge regarding antipsychotic management. Projects consistently show significant increase in post-training knowledge scores. Staff education is an effective, evidence-based intervention to mitigate medication non-adherence. By equipping staff with enhanced skills in therapeutic communication and medication monitoring, organizations can promote positive social change, improve patient outcomes, and reduce the healthcare burden. Ongoing education is recommended for sustaining these improvements. Keywords: Medication non-adherence, staff education, teach-back method. Therapeutic communication, relapse prevention, healthcare staff training.

Download

Share

 
COinS