Improving sepsis care in rural hospitals through education and compliance

Title : Improving sepsis care in rural hospitals through education and compliance

Abstract:

This quality improvement (QI) project aims to enhance sepsis management in a rural hospital system facing challenges due to limited resources and lack of specialized training. Sepsis, a critical global health issue, poses unique challenges in rural settings where timely identification and intervention are often hindered.

This project adopts a phased approach guided by the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycle to evaluate current practices, implement tailored educational programs, and monitor adherence to the 2021 Sepsis Campaign guidelines for early SIRS/Sepsis recognition.

Nursing staff across two hospital locations participated in interventions designed to improve protocol adherence and elevate sepsis care competency. Data collection utilized the Meditech EMR system supplemented by staff surveys to gauge knowledge and confidence before and after the interventions. Ethical considerations, including confidentiality, were followed.

Results revealed that pre-audit compliance with sepsis assessment protocols was around 50%. Following the intervention, a 20% increase in compliance was achieved, indicating improved adherence to protocols.

Additionally, staff reported enhanced knowledge and confidence in sepsis care, as evidenced by post-survey results.

This project addresses the pressing need for improved sepsis care in rural healthcare settings while contributing to the broader discourse on leveraging evidence-based interventions to enhance patient safety and care quality.

Biography:

Debra Hawkins, BSN, RN, is an experienced emergency room nurse currently pursuing her DNP CNS at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. With over 12 years of diverse nursing experience across rural and underserved healthcare settings, Debra's passion lies in improving patient outcomes through education and evidence-based practice. Her DNP project focuses on enhancing sepsis care in rural hospitals through protocol adherence and tailored educational interventions. In addition to her clinical work, Debra is actively involved in nursing leadership as a student board member of the Oklahoma Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists and a member of the National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists. She is also pursuing certification as a Pediatric CNS from the University of Missouri. Debra’s commitment to professional excellence is further reflected in her membership in the Alpha Iota chapter of the International Nursing Honor Society Sigma Theta Tau. Debra has been recognized as the Girl Scout Leader of the Year for Western Oklahoma (2015-2016) and continues to serve as a leader of a multilevel troop, inspiring future generations of girls. She remains dedicated to advancing healthcare, particularly in rural settings, through education, research, and compassionate patient care.