CNHS DNP Defense - Paul Gould, MSN, FNP-BC
Abstract
Individuals with serious mental illness experience significantly higher rates of metabolic syndrome and cardiometabolic disease compared with the general population. Psychiatric medications, lifestyle factors, and barriers to primary care contribute to increased risk for conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) therefore play an important role in identifying and addressing metabolic health concerns within psychiatric practice. The purpose of this Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project was to evaluate whether a structured educational intervention could influence PMHNP knowledge, confidence, attitudes, and perceived barriers related to the identification and management of metabolic syndrome.
A three-session educational program addressing metabolic syndrome, diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia management was delivered over a three-week period at an outpatient psychiatric practice. Participants completed pre- and post-intervention assessments using the Metabolic-Barriers, Attitudes, Confidence, and Knowledge (M-BACK) questionnaire and open-ended qualitative questions. Descriptive statistical analysis was conducted to evaluate changes across survey domains.
Eight providers completed the pre-intervention survey and four participants completed both the pre- and post-intervention assessments. Results demonstrated high baseline awareness of metabolic health concerns among participants. Following completion of the educational intervention, modest improvements were observed in knowledge and confidence domains. Qualitative responses highlighted the importance of clear clinical guidelines and practical treatment parameters when addressing metabolic health concerns within psychiatric settings.
Although the small sample size limited inferential statistical analysis, findings suggest that structured educational interventions may reinforce provider knowledge and support increased confidence in identifying and managing metabolic syndrome in psychiatric populations. Continued efforts to integrate metabolic health education into psychiatric practice and training programs may contribute to improved cardiometabolic monitoring and more comprehensive care for individuals with serious mental illness.
ZOOM
: Contact dhoffman@umassd.edu for the ZOOM link.
Deanna Hoffman
5089106487
dhoffman@umassd.edu