Date of Award

Fall 12-14-2024

Degree Type

Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Department

School of Nursing

First Advisor

Jennifer Stewart-Glenn

Second Advisor

Crystal Hunnicutt

Abstract

Problem Statement: Cardiothoracic surgical patients are at increased risk for inadequate pain control in the perioperative period due to a significant level of surgical pain and limitations in multimodal pain management. A strong level of evidence supports use of the erector spinae plane block (ESPB) over thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA) and thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB) in cardiothoracic surgery; however, adoption of this technique into practice is lacking.

Purpose: The primary project aim was to increase knowledge and awareness of ESPB in nurse anesthetists.

Methods: An educational intervention along with pre- and post-testing were utilized to assess for change in participants’ attitudes and knowledge of ESPB. The educational intervention highlighted block overview, technique, performance in literature, risks, benefits, & indications.

Sample: Nurse anesthetists were recruited from Lincoln Memorial University Nurse Anesthesia clinical sites, Council on Accreditation’s program directory, and professional contacts already known to the primary investigator.

Analysis: Paired t-testing was conducted, and P-values < 0.05 indicated improved attitude and increased knowledge occurred. Shapiro-Wilk was conducted to assess normality. Non-parametric testing, Wilcoxon signed rank, was also incorporated due to a smaller sample size (n=13).

Implications for Practice: This project supports the online educational intervention as an effective way to increase awareness and knowledge of ESPB in nurse anesthetists. Increased outreach, targeted at community hospitals and rural practice settings is warranted. Future studies evaluating practice barriers in rural settings and incorporation of ESPB into regional training for nurse anesthesia training programs is warranted.

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