Degree Name
Nursing Practice, DNP
Publication Date
12-2-2025
First Advisor
Lisa Drake
Second Advisor
Veronica Arredondo
Abstract
Despite growing evidence supporting the use of genetic screening in psychiatric medication management, many mental health providers lack the confidence and knowledge to utilize this tool effectively. This quality improvement (QI) project aimed to enhance provider self-efficacy and increase the utilization of genetic screening through a structured education and training program in an outpatient mental health clinic. The purpose of the project was to determine whether provider education on pharmacogenetic testing improves confidence and screening frequency compared to those who do not receive the intervention. The Donabedian Model guided evaluation of structure, process, and outcome measures, while Rogers’ Diffusion of Innovation Theory informed strategies to promote adoption. The Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) model was used to implement the intervention over eight weeks. Ten participants included outpatient mental health providers, three psychiatrists, and seven psychiatric nurse practitioners, who attended a one-hour educational session with supplemental materials. Pre- and post-surveys measured provider confidence using a validated self-efficacy scale, and electronic chart audits assessed changes in genetic test utilization. Post-intervention data demonstrated statistically significant improvements in confidence scores and increased genetic testing orders (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that structured education can strengthen provider competency, foster evidence-based prescribing, and promote sustainable integration of gene testing in mental health practice.
Rights Management
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License
Recommended Citation
Uzoh-Anigbogu, Ifeoma, "Quality Improvement Project: The Impact of Genetic Testing Education for Mental Health Providers in an Outpatient Clinic" (2025). Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects. 253.
https://arch.astate.edu/dnp-projects/253
