Nursing Theory Utilized
As it has been already mentioned in the preceding parts of the proposal, the great role in the prevention of sepsis lies upon nurses. They should be able to notice the early signs and symptoms of this condition and immediately take appropriate measures. Thus, to provide patients with the required help, nurses should constantly accumulate experience and deepen knowledge. This idea corresponds with the nursing theory proposed by Patricia Benner (1982). Benner’s (1982) concept “From Novice to Expert” emphasizes the importance of constant training and experience. According to Benner (1982), “experience teaches the proficient nurse what typical events to expect in a given situation and how to modify plans in response to these events” (p. 405). This way, it becomes apparent that the more experienced nurses are, the more capable they are to prevent the development of sepsis.
Proposed Implementation Plan with Outcome Measures
The number of deaths caused by sepsis could be reduced through the improvement of the skills and knowledge of nurses. Consequently, it is suggested to regularly make nurses participate in lectures and workshops dedicated to sepsis detection and prevention. Other measures that should be implemented include the increase of hospital funding so that hospitals could hire more qualified personnel or install better equipment. As a result, it is expected that the previously outlined measures would lead to the reduction of the number of deaths caused by sepsis. Still, it should be noted that a quick result should not be expected. The proposed actions will bring statistically significant results at least after three months from the beginning of implementation.
Application of the Evidence-Based Practice
The analysis of the existing literature dedicated to sepsis treatment and prevention illustrated that the major reason for the development of sepsis lies in the non-compliance with basic hygiene rules such as washing and disinfection of hands. From this, it was inferred that some of the nurses did not inform patients of these rules or even did not obey them by themselves. This fact was taken into consideration while creating the intervention plan. During the lectures and workshops, nurses will be told about the importance of strict compliance with basic hygiene rules. Nurses will also be explained how to make their patients strictly observe hygiene to minimize the chances for sepsis appearance after an operation, for example.
Plan for Evaluating the Proposed Nursing Intervention
The effectiveness of the proposed nursing intervention is easy to track. The intervention will be regarded as successful if the number of patients whose death was caused by sepsis reduces. More precisely, according to the statistics provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2018), one in three patients dies because of sepsis. The proposed plan of action aims to reduce the frequency of deaths caused by sepsis at least two times.
Potential Barriers to Plan Implementation
Undoubtedly, several barriers could hinder the implementation of the plan. The first problem lies in the hospital administration’s unwillingness to change the status quo and encourage nurses to attend lectures and seminars. To solve this problem, it is necessary to explain to the managerial personnel of a hospital that the reduction of the frequency of fatal outcomes caused by sepsis will have a positive impact on a hospital’s image. This, in turn, will attract more clients. The problem with the lack of funding is much more challenging to handle. Still, if a hospital does not get enough money from the local or federal government, it could attract investors or launch a crowdfunding campaign.
References
Benner, P. (1982). From novice to expert. American Journal of nursing, 82(3), 402-407.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2018). Clinical Information. Web.