Date of Conferral

8-11-2026

Date of Award

August 2026

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Mary Rodgers

Abstract

This project was conducted to observe the effects of staff education on staff knowledge and confidence regarding metabolic risk and hemoglobin A1c (A1C) monitoring for adults with serious mental illness in a crisis response unit. The lack of a streamlined system in metabolic testing in recent times has led to nuances in metabolic testing for patients with serious mental illness. The practice-focused question asked whether evidence-based staff education on A1C monitoring, and provider roles would improve staff knowledge and confidence. The purpose of the education is to strengthen knowledge of metabolic risk, A1C screening expectations, role clarity, workflow, and staff confidence. A PowerPoint education session, workflow support materials, anonymous pre-education and post-education surveys, and a results summary were developed. Descriptive statistics summarized attendance, survey completion, knowledge scores, and 5-point confidence ratings. Of 10 invited staff members, nine attended and completed both surveys. Knowledge scores improved from 61.1% to 97.2%, and mean confidence/attitude ratings improved from 3.13 to 4.53. A1C compliance rates were not measured because of the short timeline; therefore, staff compliance outcomes could not be concluded. Recommendations include refresher education, onboarding education content, quick-reference tools such as wall posters, and future A1C compliance audits. The project supports nursing practice and equity by strengthening preventive metabolic care for a vulnerable behavioral health population.

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