Improving screening rates for metabolic syndrome in patients taking second generation antipsychotic medications (SGAs)

4^th International Conference on Nursing & Healthcare

October 05-07, 2015 San Francisco, USA

Luann Richardson

University of Pittsburgh, USA

Posters-Accepted Abstracts: J Nurs Care

Abstract :

Background: Metabolic syndrome continues to be a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the US in those with serious mental disorders. The five major features of metabolic syndrome include obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, impaired glucose tolerance and hypertension. Metabolic syndrome is more likely to occur in individuals with mental illnesses who are prescribed second generation anti-psychotic medications (SGAs) to manage their psychiatric symptoms. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) and American Psychiatric Association (APA) guidelines for metabolic screening allow health care providers the opportunity to focus on patients prescribed SGAs who are at higher risk. However, rates of metabolic screening for patients prescribed SGAs remains low. Strategies are needed to increase yet simplify regimens to increase adherence to guideline recommendations. Methodology: A quality improvement strategy (QIS) to increase rates of metabolic screening. Results: The initiation of an EMR prompting tool increased clinician adherence to the ADA/AHA guidelines on metabolic screening in patients prescribed SGAs. Post test scores for knowledge of metabolic effects of SGAs increased in both healthcare personnel and patients following the QIS. Similar to other studies, patients prescribed a SGA gained weight and waist circumference increased, however with concentrated effort, some lost weight. Patient overall satisfaction with care rose following the QIS. Conclusions: Use of an EMR prompting tool combined with staff and patient education was found to increase rates of metabolic screening and improved patient satisfaction with care. Use of EMR tools should be optimized and simplified to assist providers in completing recommended screening.

Biography :

Email: lgr4@pitt.edu