Improving Outcomes for Psychiatric Patients with Metabolic Syndrome: An Evidence Based Quality Initiative
Abstract
Patients who are prescribed second generation antipsychotic medications are vulnerable and at an
increased risk for developing metabolic syndrome (MetS). Metabolic syndrome is the
development of obesity, hyperlipidemia, increased waist circumference, hypertension, and
elevated blood glucose. Patients prescribed second generation antipsychotic medications who
develop MetS experience shortened life expectancy by approximately10-30 years, with a 60%
increase in mortality compared to the general population. Psychiatric providers are lax with
regards to MetS screening, demonstrate lack of the essential knowledge required to screen for
MetS, and have laissez faire attitudes and practice habits toward MetS screening. The purpose
and goal of this quasi experimental evidence based quality initiative (EBQI) is to determine if
education about and dissemination of a MetS screening tool will increase psychiatric providers
screening rates and referral to primary care for metabolic syndrome treatment. Five psychiatric
medication providers were provided with MetS screening education and screening tool
dissemination as part of this EBQI project. The results showed significant increase in utilization
of the MetS screening tool two months after education and screening tool dissemination, with
further increases screening tool utilization four months after education and screening tool
dissemination. Results indicate that further education is needed in referral of MetS screen
positive patients to a primary care provider. As a result, increased MetS screening can have a
positive impact on patient lifespan, quality of life, and decrease in healthcare expenditures
annually.
Degree
D.N.P.
Thesis Department
Rights
Open Access (fully available)
Copyright retained by author