Degree Name
Nursing Practice, DNP
Publication Date
2025
First Advisor
Sandy King
Second Advisor
Cassandra Elliott
Abstract
Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a debilitating movement disorder commonly associated with prolonged antipsychotic medication use. The disorder results in functional impairment and reduced quality of life for those affected. Frequent TD screening using scales such as the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) for those on antipsychotic medication is recommended. However, its underutilization due to a lack of awareness, confidence, and knowledge of its applicability contributes to delayed detection and management, resulting in poor patient outcomes. The purpose of this quality improvement project was to improve TD detection and management through healthcare provider training to affect their self-efficacy and knowledge and enhance the frequency and accuracy of screening and management, thus reducing TD progression and ensuring better patient outcomes. The project followed a mixed-method approach using qualitative and quantitative data. Data collection was through retrospective chart review pre- and post-intervention to identify the frequency of TD detection and generalized self-efficacy scale scores. The findings indicated an average generalized self-efficacy score of 19.75 and 30.625 pre- and post-intervention, respectively. A paired t-test showed a significant average difference between pre-intervention and post-intervention GSE scores (t7 = -31.038, p < 0.001). A retrospective review of 20 charts indicated 50% (n=10) screenings conducted pre-intervention and 70% post-intervention showing a 20% improvement in screening. The project demonstrated the importance of healthcare provider training in impacting their self-efficacy and knowledge, thus improving the frequency of TD screening, early detection, and intervention and improving patient safety in psychiatric healthcare settings.
Rights Management
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Docteur, Judeline, "Quality Improvement Project: Improving Tardive Dyskinesia Detection and Management Through AIMS Scale Utilization in Outpatient Psychiatry Clinic" (2025). Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects. 100.
https://arch.astate.edu/dnp-projects/100
