Date of Conferral
7-24-2026
Date of Award
July 2026
Degree
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
School
Nursing
Advisor
Cara Krulewitch
Abstract
The doctoral project was focused on improving staff education and development to prevent chronic kidney disease (CKD) through community health worker (CHW) education. The practice problem was the delayed identification of CKD risk factors and late referral to nephrology services, particularly among rural and underserved populations. Because CKD often progresses without symptoms, early education and awareness are critical to improving outcomes and reducing disease progression. The purpose of the project was to develop and implement a structured CKD educational curriculum for CHWs to improve their confidence in kidney health, CKD risk factors, prevention strategies, early identification, and referral awareness. The practice-focused question examined whether a structured CKD educational program would improve CHWs’ confidence and awareness related to CKD. Project strategies included an evidence review, stakeholder collaboration, curriculum development, implementation of virtual training, and pre- and posttraining evaluation. The attendees reported no prior formal education or training focused specifically on kidney health or CKD. The overall mean confidence score rose from 2.10 before training to 4.20 after. Implications for nursing practice include strengthened leadership in community education, chronic disease prevention, interdisciplinary collaboration, and population health. The project supports positive social change by promoting health equity, expanding access to kidney health education, and addressing CKD disparities among rural and underserved populations.
Recommended Citation
Smith, Samantha L.M., "Enhancing Chronic Kidney Disease Awareness and Early Identification Through Community Health Worker Education in Rural Arkansas" (2026). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 20434.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/20434
