NURS-FPX 9902 Nursing Doctoral Project 2
Literature Synthesis
This evaluation provides in-depth insights into the doctoral student’s search strategy and methods used to locate literature for synthesis. Its primary objective is to facilitate the synthesis of literature discovered during the research process. The doctoral learner will comprehensively outline the process used to identify literature sources, elucidate the interrelations among these sources, and discern commonalities and differences in research questions, methodologies, and findings.
Search Strategy
The development of a literature search strategy is crucial for the success of a doctoral project. The references obtained offer evidence-based support to define patient problems and suggest improvements in quality. The literature search commenced after identifying a patient-related problem at the project site and formulating a PICOT question for caregivers of chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) patients. The project site and Capella Institutional Review Board (IRB) approved this PICOT and quality improvement project.
Four databases, including the Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health (CINAHL), Nursing and Allied Health, PubMed, and the Capella Library, were utilized for evidence gathering. The search initially focused on “COPD readmission,” narrowing down results to peer-reviewed articles within the last five years. Fifteen articles meeting the search criteria were selected, printed, and assessed according to the hierarchy of evidence.
Subsequently, each database was individually utilized for literature searches, such as “COPD Readmissions” and the “teach-back method.” Articles meeting criteria were retained and used in the project and synthesis. The overall literature search process involved careful consideration of relevance, publication date, and hierarchy of evidence. A total of 1,500 articles were assessed, resulting in 15 retained for the project, supporting the PICOT question and intervention.
COPD Readmissions
COPD is a chronic inflammatory lung disease with a global impact on mortality. Initiatives like the Learn More Breathe Better campaign by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) aim to reduce hospitalizations. The Hospital Readmission Reduction Program (HRRP) by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) addresses financial implications. Studies, including randomized control trials, cohort studies, and systematic reviews, explore strategies such as personalized action plans, telephonic consultations, and predictive modeling to decrease COPD readmissions.
Self-Care
Risk factors, including smoking and environmental influences, contribute to COPD. Screening for socioeconomic issues is crucial, aligning with guidelines for controlled COPD and acute exacerbations. Education focusing on smoking cessation, symptom management, and proper inhaler use is essential. Systematic reviews and randomized control trials emphasize tailoring education strategies to individual needs, including multiple evidence-based approaches.
Teach-Back Method
The teach-back method emerges as a pivotal tool for educating COPD patients, promoting self-management skills, and reducing readmissions. Studies advocate for training healthcare professionals as educators, emphasizing the importance of assessing patient readiness to learn. Electronic learning, national action plans, and healthcare provider training contribute to a comprehensive approach to education delivery. The teach-back method proves effective in enhancing patient knowledge and decreasing hospitalizations.
Conclusion
The literature synthesis uniformly supports the efficacy of the teach-back method in improving COPD patient outcomes. Quality improvement projects incorporating this method show positive results in patient knowledge, self-management, health literacy, and overall well-being, thereby contributing to the reduction of COPD readmissions. The multifaceted approach to education, including various learning styles and delivery methods, ensures a comprehensive and effective strategy for enhancing patient care.
Aida, A., Svensson, T., Svensson, A., Chung, U.-I., & Yamauchi, T. (2020). Ehealth delivery of educational content using selected visual methods to improve health literacy on lifestyle-related diseases: Literature review. JMIR mHealth and uHealth, 8(12), e18316. https://doi.org/10.2196/18316
Allegrante, J. P., Wells, M. T., & Peterson, J. C. (2019). Interventions to support behavioral self-management of chronic diseases. Annual Review of Public Health, 40(1), 127–146.