Date of Award
Summer 2021
Degree Name
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Department
Nursing
Faculty Chair
Dr. Serena Gramling
Preceptor
Dr. Ryan Cordry
Abstract
Background: Surgical site infections (SSI) are the third most reported nosocomial infection causing an increased length of stay, increased healthcare cost, and a substantial increase in morbidity. A SSI is an infection developing within 30 days of surgery without using an implant and within one year of surgery utilizing any form of implant. Typically SSI occurs at the time of incision. However, poor postoperative wound care can lead to an SSI.
Purpose: This project aims to educate nursing staff on care of the total joint replacement (TJR) patient to reduce readmission rates for postoperative SSI.
Design Methods: This quality improvement project delivered education to participants during a 30-minute session. Education included the different wound dressings and associated care, SSI risks and prevention, and patient discharge education. A quasi-experimental design was utilized with pre- and post-education testing to evaluate effectiveness.
Conclusion: Comparison of the pre- and post-educational session testing revealed a substantial increase in staff knowledge of TJR patient care and associated wound dressings and care guidelines, as well as a decrease in SSI readmission rates.
Implications for Nursing: Success of the educational sessions led to this education being added to new hire orientation and yearly staff competency education.
Keywords: surgical site infection, wound care, education, evidence-based practice, NPWT, silver, sterile gauze, TJR
Recommended Citation
Collier, Amanda, "Improving Patient Outcomes with Post-Op Education for Nurses Caring for Patients Undergoing Total Joint Replacement" (2021). Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects. 46.
https://digitalcommons.jsu.edu/etds_nursing/46
Included in
Medical Education Commons, Orthopedics Commons, Perioperative, Operating Room and Surgical Nursing Commons, Surgery Commons