Date of Award
Fall 4-18-2025
Document Type
Dissertation
Publication Status
Version of Record
Submission Date
December 2025
College Granting Degree
Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Degree Name
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]
Tracian Kelly
Abstract
This quality improvement project aimed to improve continuity of care for individuals with schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder by implementing an evidence-based protocol to increase the use of long-acting injectable (LAI) antipsychotics in an outpatient psychiatric setting. Guided by the Iowa Model and Jean Watson's Theory of Human Caring, the intervention focused on the early identification of individuals at risk of relapse, the adoption of standardized protocols, education for both patients and caregivers and structured staff training. The protocol, adapted from the Taiwanese Society of Biological Psychiatry and Neuropsychopharmacology (TSBPN), provided clear criteria for LAI initiation and follow-up care. Outcomes were measured using validated tools such as the Bipolar Recovery Questionnaire and Recovery Assessment Scale, alongside adherence and readmission metrics. The project resulted in improved staff knowledge, enhanced patient engagement, and a projected 25% increase in LAI use over three months. These findings support the role of nurse-led, person-centered interventions in advancing evidence-based psychiatric care and reducing hospital readmissions among vulnerable populations.
Recommended Citation
Walker, Lunette, "ENHANCING USE OF LONG-ACTING INJECTABLE ANTIPSYCHOTICS VIA EVIDENCE-BASED PROTOCOLS IN OUTPATIENT PSYCHIATRY" (2025). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 166.
https://digitalcommons.fau.edu/etd_general/166