NURS FPX4900 Assessment 2

In an era marked by increasing rates of health issues, the assessment at hand delves into the pivotal role of healthcare policies, nursing practice standards, and evidence-based interventions in addressing the multifaceted challenges presented by patients with diabetes. Diabetes stands as a compelling exemplar of the intricate interplay between healthcare quality, patient safety, and costs. This assessment aims to explore the dynamic landscape wherein state board nursing practice standards, organizational policies, and governmental regulations intersect to mold the provision of care, while highlighting concrete strategies that can ameliorate the care quality, bolster patient safety, and mitigate financial burdens for both patients and the healthcare system.

Impact on Patient Safety, Quality of Care, and Costs

When a patient, like the 40-year-old lady with diabetes, faces health challenges, it can have a substantial impact on the quality of care received. For instance, her condition may require regular monitoring, medication management, and lifestyle modifications. This not only increases the workload of healthcare providers but can also lead to inconsistencies in care. In some cases, rushed appointments or limited time for patient education can compromise the quality of care, potentially resulting in suboptimal outcomes. The patient may receive generic advice rather than personalized guidance, which is essential for managing conditions effectively (Morris, 2021).

For this patient, there is a risk of medication errors, mismanagement of blood glucose levels, or complications associated with the condition. Moreover, there’s the potential for adverse events such as hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia if safety precautions are not followed diligently. For instance, a medication dosage error or a delay in insulin administration could lead to severe consequences (Morris, 2021). The burden of self-management often falls on the patient and their family, and inadequate education or support can increase the risk of safety incidents.

The impact of diabetes on costs is profound, affecting both the healthcare system and the individual. From a systemic perspective, the growing prevalence of diabetes results in increased healthcare expenses, including costs related to medications, physician visits, and emergency care for complications (Adiga et al., 2021). Furthermore, the system must allocate resources for public health campaigns and prevention efforts. At the individual level, the patient may face significant financial burdens. Copayments for medications, medical equipment, regular doctor visits, and specialized care can strain their finances. The costs are not limited to healthcare; they extend to potential productivity losses due to missed workdays, reduced quality of life, and even mental health challenges (Adiga et al., 2021).

Government policies’ Impact on the quality of Care

Nursing Practice Standards

Nursing practice standards set by state boards significantly affect the quality of care and patient safety. These standards define the scope of practice for registered nurses (RNs) and nurse practitioners (NPs), impacting the level of care patients receive. In cases like diabetes, where ongoing management is essential, policies that enable advanced practice nurses to take on a broader role in care delivery can lead to improved outcomes (Herges et al., 2020). Such policies might include allowing NPs to prescribe medications or order specific diagnostic tests, resulting in more timely interventions and safer patient care. By aligning nursing practice with the latest evidence-based guidelines, state boards contribute to a higher quality of care (Herges et al., 2020).

NURS FPX 4900 Assessment 2

Organizational and Governmental Policies

Beyond state boards, broader organizational and governmental policies also play a pivotal role in influencing the impact of chronic health problems on patients and the healthcare system. For instance, reimbursement policies can directly affect the costs incurred by individuals and the healthcare system (Hsun Ming Lee et al., 2021). Policies that incentivize preventive care like the Comprehensive Primary Care Plus (CPC+) model in the United States, promote cost-effective, high-quality care (Hsun Ming Lee et al., 2021). Furthermore, these policies can encourage the integration of healthcare services and promote interdisciplinary care teams.

Nursing Scope of Practice

Policy changes can significantly affect nursing scope of practice. For example, recognizing nurse practitioners as primary care providers in certain states allows for improved access to care, which is vital for patients (Herges et al., 2020). This expansion of nursing scope can positively impact patient safety and quality of care by increasing the availability of healthcare services. It also reduces the costs associated with unnecessary emergency department visits, as patients can receive appropriate care in primary care settings.

Informing and Guiding Interventions

Policy can serve as a foundation for designing and implementing interventions aimed at improving the care of patients with diabetes. Understanding the policy landscape allows healthcare organizations and nursing professionals to identify opportunities for intervention. For example, a healthcare system operating in a state with robust telehealth policies might leverage telemedicine to enhance patient education and remote monitoring for diabetes management. This not only enhances patient safety but also offers cost-effective solutions (Greenlee et al., 2023).

Strategies to Improve the Quality of care, Enhance Patient Safety, and Reduce Cost

One effective strategy to enhance patient care and safety is through comprehensive patient education and self-management programs. For example, a healthcare organization can establish a structured diabetes education program, offering personalized guidance on medication management, diet, exercise, and blood glucose monitoring. By providing clear, evidence-based information and resources, patients are empowered to take control of their health, reduce the risk of complications, and make informed decisions. Benchmark data can be collected through regular assessments of patient knowledge, self-management skills, and health outcomes. Practicum hours can be dedicated to working with patients to identify their education needs and evaluate the effectiveness of educational materials and methods (Hajnalka Požar & Dragana Simin, 2021).

Telehealth and remote monitoring tools can enhance patient safety and reduce healthcare costs. For instance, patients can use mobile apps or devices to monitor their blood glucose levels, and healthcare providers can remotely track this data (Sharma et al., 2022). Telehealth visits can offer routine follow-ups and consultations without the need for in-person visits. This approach not only improves patient convenience but also ensures timely interventions, reducing the risk of complications and hospital admissions. Practicum hours can involve implementing and evaluating the effectiveness of telehealth interventions, including patient feedback on usability and satisfaction (Sharma et al., 2022).

Another effective strategy is to implement care coordination and team-based care models. This approach ensures that patients receive well-coordinated care from multiple healthcare professionals. For example, a care team might include primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, dietitians, and mental health counselors, all working collaboratively to address the diverse needs of a patient with diabetes. Benchmark data can be collected through patient outcomes, such as HbA1c levels and rates of hospitalization, which can demonstrate the effectiveness of the care coordination model (Williams et al., 2021). Practicum hours can be spent participating in multidisciplinary care meetings and evaluating patient satisfaction with care coordination.

Improving medication management and adherence is critical for patient safety and cost reduction. Strategies can include simplified medication regimens, medication synchronization, and adherence support through reminders and counseling (Williams et al., 2021). By enhancing medication management, patients are less likely to experience medication errors and complications. Practicum hours can involve direct engagement with patients, identifying medication-related challenges, and monitoring adherence rates. Collecting benchmark data on medication adherence and related outcomes, such as hospital readmissions, can be used to assess the effectiveness of these interventions (Williams et al., 2021).

Preventive measures and early intervention can significantly reduce the impact of diabetes on both patients and the healthcare system. For example, healthcare organizations can establish diabetes prevention programs focused on at-risk individuals, which can reduce the incidence of diabetes cases and associated healthcare costs (Williams et al., 2021).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the multifaceted examination of diabetes within the framework of healthcare policies, nursing practice standards, and effective interventions reveals the immense impact of these factors on the quality of care, patient safety, and costs. Through the synthesis of current literature and practical insights, we have identified a range of strategies that hold the potential to transform the care landscape for patients with diabetes. By embracing patient education, telehealth, care coordination, medication management, and preventive measures, we can empower patients to manage their condition effectively, enhance safety, and alleviate the financial burdens faced by both individuals and the healthcare system. This assessment underscores the need for a patient-centered, evidence-based approach to disease management and reinforces the critical importance of informed, responsive policies and practices to ensure better health outcomes and a more sustainable healthcare system.

References

Adiga, U., Sachidananda Adiga, & Rai, T. (2021). Determination of cost of illness of type 2 diabetes mellitus in tertiary care setting. Book Publisher International (a Part of SCIENCEDOMAIN International), 78–97. https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/tipr/v11/9858d

Greenlee, M. C., Bolen, S., Chong, W., Dokun, A., Gonzalvo, J., Hawkins, M., Herman, W. H., Leake, E., Linder, B., & Conlin, P. R. (2023). The national clinical care commission report to congress: Leveraging federal policies and programs to improve diabetes treatment and reduce complications. Diabetes Care, 46(2), e51–e59. https://doi.org/10.2337/dc22-0621

Hajnalka Požar, & Dragana Simin. (2021). Structured education of patient with diabetes: A review of organizational and methodological strategies and success factors. Sestrinska Reč, 24(83), 19–25. https://doi.org/10.5937/sestrec2183019p

Herges, J. R., Ruehmann, L. L., Matulis, J. C., Hickox, B. C., & McCoy, R. G. (2020). Enhanced care team nurse process to improve diabetes care. The Annals of Family Medicine, 18(5), 463–463. https://doi.org/10.1370/afm.2553

Hsun Ming Lee, Long, J., Mehta, M. R., & Zhang, P. (2021). Health information exchange adoption: Influences of public insurance programs. International Journal of Information and Decision Sciences, 13(3), 219–219. https://doi.org/10.1504/ijids.2021.10041444

Morris, D. (2021). Improving outcomes for older people with diabetes. Practice Nursing, 32(7), 270–276. https://doi.org/10.12968/pnur.2021.32.7.270

Sharma, V., Feldman, M., & Sharma, R. (2022). Telehealth technologies in diabetes self-management and education. Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology, 193229682210930. https://doi.org/10.1177/19322968221093078

Williams, J., Sachdev, N., Kirley, K., Moin, T., Duru, O. K., Brunisholz, K. D., Sill, K., Joy, E., Aquino, G. C., Brown, A. R., O’Connell, C., Rea, B., Craig-Buckholtz, H., Witherspoon, P. W., & Bruett, C. (2021). Implementation of diabetes prevention in health care organizations: Best practice recommendations. Population Health Management, 25(1). https://doi.org/10.1089/pop.2021.0044

NURS FPX 4900 Assessment 2