Degree Name

Nursing Practice, DNP

Publication Date

2-7-2021

Upload Date

2024

First Advisor

Mark Foster

Abstract

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) elevation is a primary risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular problems such as heart disease and stroke. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and stroke is the fifth leading. Earlier LDL reduction improves morbidity and mortality. Literature indicates fewer women start statin medications compared to men. The purpose of this quality improvement project was to implement a policy change that integrated evidence-based clinical practice guidelines translated into a clinical decision tool. Our aim is to determine whether it would improve statin initiation for the local female population between the ages of 25 and 60 whose LDL is equal to or greater than 130 mg/dL. The clinical tool was implemented within a singular rural health clinic that employees eight providers. Prior to use, providers received education. Fifty chart evaluations conclude a statin baseline use of 24% in the population. A four-week post-implementation chart review found 88% of the population were offered or taking statin medication. Tool implementation and provider education appear to have decreased the local gap in statin treatment for this population. Clinical decision tool implementation within a practice setting may have the ability to help increase the statin provider treatment consistency.

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

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