Assignment Question
In a 5–7 page written assessment, define the patient, family, or population health problem that will be the focus of your capstone project. Assess the problem from a leadership, collaboration, communication, change management, and policy perspective. Plan to spend approximately 2 direct practicum hours meeting with a patient, family, or group of your choice to explore the problem and, if desired, consulting with subject matter and industry experts. Document the time spent (your practicum hours) with these individuals or group in the Capella Academic Portal Volunteer Experience Form.This assessment lays the foundation for the work that will carry you through your capstone experience and guide the practicum hours needed to complete the work in this course. In addition, it will enable you to do the following: Develop a problem statement for a patient, family, or population that’s relevant to your practice. Begin building a body of evidence that will inform your approach to your practicum. Focus on the influence of leadership, collaboration, communication, change management, and policy on the problem.In this assessment, you’ll assess the patient, family, or population health problem that will be the focus of your capstone project. Plan to spend approximately 2 hours working with a patient, family, or group of your choice to explore the problem from a leadership, collaboration, communication, change management, and policy perspective. During this time, you may also choose to consult with subject matter and industry experts about the problem (for example, directors of quality or patient safety, nurse managers/directors, physicians, and epidemiologists).To prepare for the assessment, complete the following: Identify the patient, family, or group you want to work with during your practicum. The patient you select can be a friend or a family member. You’ll work with this patient, family, or group throughout your capstone project, focusing on a specific health care problem. Begin surveying the scholarly and professional literature to establish your evidence and research base, inform your assessment, and meet scholarly expectations for supporting evidence.Use Assessment 01 Supplement: Assessing the Problem: Leadership, Collaboration, Communication, Change Management, and Policy Considerations [PDF] Download Assessment 01 Supplement: Assessing the Problem: Leadership, Collaboration, Communication, Change Management, and Policy Considerations [PDF]to define the patient, family, or population health problem that will be the focus of your capstone project. Assess the problem from a leadership, collaboration, communication, change management, and policy perspective and establish your evidence and research base to plan, implement, and share findings related to your project. PART 2 Connect with the patient, family, or group you’ll work with during your practicum. During this portion of your practicum, plan to spend at least 2 hours meeting with the patient, family, or group and, if desired, consulting with subject matter and industry experts of your choice. The hours you spend meeting with them should take place outside of regular work hours. Use the Practicum Focus Sheet [PDF] Download Practicum Focus Sheet [PDF]provided for this assessment to guide your work and interpersonal interactions. Document the time spent (your practicum hours) with these individuals or group in the Capella Academic Portal Volunteer Experience Form.The assessment requirements, outlined below, correspond to the scoring guide criteria, so be sure to address each main point. Read the performance-level descriptions for each criterion to see how your work will be assessed. In addition, note the additional requirements for document format and length and for supporting evidence. Define a patient, family, or population health problem that’s relevant to your practice. Summarize the problem you’ll explore. Identify the patient, family, or group you intend to work with during your practicum. Provide context, data, or information that substantiates the presence of the problem and its significance and relevance to the patient, family, or population. Explain why this problem is relevant to your practice as a baccalaureate-prepared nurse. Analyze evidence from peer-reviewed literature and professional sources that describes and guides nursing actions related to the patient, family, or population problem you’ve defined. Note whether the authors provide supporting evidence from the literature that’s consistent with what you see in your nursing practice. Explain how you would know if the data are unreliable. Describe what the literature says about barriers to the implementation of evidence-based practice in addressing the problem you’ve defined. Describe research that has tested the effectiveness of nursing standards and/or policies in improving patient, family, or population outcomes for this problem. Describe current literature on the role of nurses in policy making to improve outcomes, prevent illness, and reduce hospital readmissions. Describe what the literature says about a nursing theory or conceptual framework that might frame and guide your actions during your practicum. Explain how state board nursing practice standards and/or organizational or governmental policies could affect the patient, family, or population problem you’ve defined. Describe research that has tested the effectiveness of these standards and/or policies in improving patient, family, or population outcomes for this problem. Describe current literature on the role of nurses in policy making to improve outcomes, prevent illness, and reduce hospital readmissions. Describe the effects of local, state, and federal policies or legislation on your nursing scope of practice, within the context of this problem. Propose leadership strategies to improve outcomes, patient-centered care, and the patient experience related to the patient, family, or population problem you’ve defined. Discuss research on the effectiveness of leadership strategies. Define the role that you anticipate leadership must play in addressing the problem. Describe collaboration and communication strategies that you anticipate will be needed to address the problem. Describe the change management strategies that you anticipate will be required to address the problem. Document the time spent (your practicum hours) with these individuals or group in the Capella Academic Portal Volunteer Experience Form. Organize content so ideas flow logically with smooth transitions. Apply APA style and formatting to scholarly writing.
Assignment Answer
Assessment of the Problem: Hypertension and Its Impact
Hypertension, a global health concern, significantly contributes to the morbidity crisis worldwide. Often referred to as high blood pressure, it is a major precursor to cardiovascular diseases, particularly ischemic strokes. Many individuals remain undiagnosed with hypertension, leading to prolonged exposure to the condition. Uncontrolled hypertension poses a substantial burden on both individuals and healthcare systems, resulting in increased economic and societal costs (Huston, 2018).
In my current work with John, a 50-year-old man with chronic hypertension, the assessment involved face-to-face interviews to understand his medical history and lifestyle factors. Despite medication changes improving blood pressure control, challenges such as smoking, limited technological knowledge, and reliance on public transportation impact his ability to manage hypertension effectively. Additionally, his clinical heart failure, despite a normal ejection fraction, underscores the complexity of hypertension’s impact on overall health. These factors highlight the need for a comprehensive and patient-centered approach (Huston, 2018).
Role of Leadership and Change Management Strategies
Effective leadership in healthcare is crucial for addressing hypertension-related challenges. According to the AHRQ, leadership is not confined to top-level executives but extends to frontline staff and managers, playing vital roles in implementing change and supporting patient-centered care. Nurses, as frontline healthcare providers, are tasked with demonstrating administrative competencies, technological skills, and ethical values to enhance patient care and address clinical issues (Huston, 2018).
In hypertension management, a two-pronged approach involving lifestyle changes and pharmacological control is the primary strategy. Lifestyle modifications, addressing factors like diet and physical activity, are essential due to the significant impact of environmental factors on blood pressure. Nurses play a key role in educating and supporting patients in implementing these changes. The incorporation of electronic health records (EHR) and telehealth further enhances the effectiveness of healthcare delivery, promoting personalized care and improving patient outcomes (Haddad & Geiger, 2021).
Nursing Ethics and Interventions
Nurses must navigate ethical challenges in hypertension management, respecting patients’ autonomy and decisions regarding treatment. Upholding ethical standards involves acknowledging and understanding personal and professional integrity, guided by the nursing Code of Ethics. Ethical issues in nursing, including the right of patients to refuse treatment, require nurses to balance advocacy for patient care with respect for individual autonomy (Huston, 2018).
Nurses need a solid foundation in ethical concepts, starting from education and continuing throughout their careers. Active participation in ethics committees and ongoing ethics reviews in specialty areas ensures that nurses uphold the highest ethical standards, advocating for patient rights and ethical treatment. Ethics education is integral to preparing nurses for the complex decisions they may face in their careers (Huston, 2018).
Best Practice Strategies for Communication and Collaboration
Clinical communication and collaboration (CC&C) tools are vital for efficient information flow in healthcare settings. These tools, including electronic health records and telemedicine, enable practitioners to communicate patient data, share alerts, and enhance care transitions. Telemedicine, in particular, plays a crucial role in improving access to healthcare, empowering patients, and enhancing blood pressure and cardiovascular risk management (Haddad & Geiger, 2021).
Collaborative practice and effective communication are essential for successful hypertension management. The use of telemedicine can bridge the gap between healthcare providers and patients, providing timely access to healthcare services. Interoperability and collaboration in healthcare settings, facilitated by CC&C systems, contribute to improved patient outcomes and overall healthcare effectiveness (Haddad & Geiger, 2021).
State Board Nursing Practice Standards and/or Organizational or Governmental Policies
Nursing practice standards and policies at the state and organizational levels significantly impact hypertension care. Nurses, including nurse practitioners, play a crucial role in the diagnostic and pharmacological aspects of hypertension care. Nurse-led interventions have shown higher rates of blood pressure control, emphasizing the importance of nursing in improving cardiovascular outcomes (Haddad & Geiger, 2021).
Accreditation bodies, such as the American Nurses Credentialing Centre, recognize the importance of continuing nursing education in hypertension therapy. The implementation of evidence-based guidelines and protocols, aligned with national treatment standards, ensures that nurses effectively contribute to hypertension management. The role of nurses in policy-making and adherence to organizational and governmental policies is pivotal in achieving optimal patient outcomes (Huston, 2018).
Quality of Care and Patient Safety
Quality of care is directly linked to improved blood pressure management in hypertensive individuals. However, challenges exist, with younger individuals and those without cardiac risk factors receiving subpar treatment. Quality measurement methods help identify areas for improvement, guiding efforts to enhance the overall quality of care. The data suggests that despite improvements, there is still room for enhancing the quality of care for hypertension patients (Khalil et al., 2019).
Monitoring and improving quality of care require ongoing assessment and adjustments to healthcare practices. The integration of evidence-based guidelines and continuous evaluation of patient outcomes contribute to enhancing the quality of care for hypertensive individuals. Strategies to address disparities in care should be informed by current research findings, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based practice (Khalil et al., 2019).
Costs to System and Individual
Healthcare costs associated with hypertension are concentrated in specific populations, with the top percentage of individuals incurring the majority of expenses. Direct and indirect costs, including treatment expenses and societal losses due to illness, contribute to the overall economic burden. Aging populations and variations in insurance status influence overall health expenditures, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of cost factors in hypertension management (Asch et al., 2005).
Understanding the direct and indirect costs of healthcare services is essential for effective resource allocation and financial planning. Variability in healthcare costs necessitates a nuanced approach to policymaking and resource distribution. A focus on addressing cost drivers and promoting preventive measures is crucial for achieving sustainable and cost-effective hypertension management (Asch et al., 2005).
Care Coordination and Community Resources
Community-based care coordination is a collaborative effort involving various healthcare professionals and community resources. Coordination ensures patient-centered, seamless care transitions and improved outcomes. Focused care coordination has the potential to enhance the efficiency and safety of the healthcare system, benefiting patients, providers, and payers (Khalil et al., 2019).
Collaborative practice and care coordination are essential components of hypertension management. Involving healthcare professionals, clinics, hospitals, and community agencies in a coordinated effort improves patient outcomes and overall healthcare efficiency. Leveraging community resources and establishing effective communication channels contribute to successful care coordination and improved patient experiences (Khalil et al., 2019).
Community Resources and Patient-Friendly Materials
Several community resources provide patient-friendly materials and links for hypertension. Organizations such as the American Heart Association, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, and the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke offer valuable information for patients. Access to such resources empowers patients to understand and manage their hypertension, promoting self-management and adherence to treatment plans (Khalil et al., 2019).
Utilizing community resources and patient-friendly materials is integral to patient education and engagement. Nurses can play a key role in guiding patients to relevant resources, enhancing their understanding of hypertension, and promoting lifestyle modifications. Accessible and informative materials contribute to improved patient outcomes and increased satisfaction with healthcare services (Khalil et al., 2019).
In conclusion, addressing hypertension requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing leadership, collaboration, communication, change management, and adherence to policies and standards. Nurses, as frontline healthcare providers, play a pivotal role in implementing evidence-based practices, advocating for patients, and contributing to policy-making. The integration of technology, telemedicine, and community resources further enhances the effectiveness of hypertension management. Continuous assessment, quality improvement initiatives, and a patient-centered approach are essential for achieving optimal outcomes in hypertension care.
References
Asch, S. M., Kerr, E. A., Keesey, J., Adams, J. L., Setodji, C. M., Malik, S., McGlynn, E. A. (2005). Who is at greatest risk for receiving poor-quality health care? New England Journal of Medicine, 354(11), 1147–1156.
Campbell, E. M., Sittig, D. F., Ash, J. S., Guappone, K. P., & Dykstra, R. H. (2018). Types of unintended consequences related to computerized provider order entry. Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association, 13(5), 547–556.
Haddad, L. M., & Geiger, R. A. (2021). Nursing: Concepts and practice. Elsevier.
Huston, C. J. (2018). Professional issues in nursing: Challenges and opportunities. Wolters Kluwer Health.
Khalil, H., Bell, B., Chambers, H., Sheikh, A., Avery, A. J., & Professionalism in Pharmacy E-health (PPIE) Group. (2019). Quality of e-health studies reporting randomized controlled trials in chronic diseases: a systematic review. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 21(8), e11967.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the role of nurses in hypertension management?
A: Nurses play a crucial role in diagnosing, treating, and educating patients with hypertension. They contribute to leadership, collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, and adhere to policies to improve patient outcomes.
Q: How does telemedicine impact hypertension care?
A: Telemedicine enhances accessibility to healthcare services, empowers hypertensive patients through remote monitoring, and improves communication between healthcare providers and patients, leading to better outcomes.
Q: What are the ethical considerations in nursing practice related to hypertension?
A: Ethical considerations include respecting patient autonomy, advocating for patient rights, and upholding the highest ethical standards in decision-making. Nurses must balance patient preferences with evidence-based care.
Q: How does cost affect hypertension management at the individual and system levels?
A: Costs in hypertension management vary, impacting individuals differently based on insurance status and age. Understanding direct and indirect costs is essential for effective resource allocation and financial planning.
Q: What community resources are available for hypertension patients?
A: Patient-friendly materials from organizations like the American Heart Association and the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke provide valuable information for hypertension patients, empowering them in self-management.
