The successful planning and implementation of a capstone project requires a lot of input and focus on various aspects of research. Central to such a process is the use of peer-reviewed literature and evidence (Chinn et al., 2021). Therefore these two were key in informing the plan and implementation of the capstone project. The use of literature review was key in offering a theoretical framework upon which the intervention was to be based. From literature, it was evident that nursing interventions require theoretical foundations. The evidence used was that the use of comprehensive educational initiatives have shown efficacy in addressing and managing various chronic conditions, so it was a foundation for argument that the intervention would help manage Mr. Y. the project was also guided by the principles of evidence-based practice. For example, that evidence used should come from four sources which include scientific findings, the organization, practitioners and stakeholders.

LEVARAGING HEALTHCARE TECHNOLOGY

In recent years, technology has widely been applied not only in healthcare but also in other sectors. Technologies that have been adopted for diabetes management include Telehealth, automated bolus calculators, continuous glucose monitoring, implantable continuous glucose monitors/sensors, integrated systems, smartphone, applications, and wearable technologies (Alcántara-Aragón, 2019). In this project, one of the technology leveraged is telehealth. Telehealth was important in improving communication. In some cases, I would teach the patient the phone calls. To enhance care, I also advised and helped the patient to access useful resources on diabetes and congestive heart failure from the internet. Therefore, leveraging various technological applications led to better patient outcomes.

OPPORTUNITIES OF IMPROVING HEALTH CARE TECHNOLGY

As earlier indicated, technology was successfully leveraged to enhance the project outcomes. However, it is worth noting that the leveraged technology can still be improved for future use. For example, in ensuring that Mr. Y had better patients outcomes phone calls were used in cases where physical visits were not necessary or inconveniencing. During the phone calls, various aspects of care were discussed including medication adherence, the progress with diet and addressing of the patient’s daily concerns regarding the management of his condition. This telehealth engagement can be improved to video calls to enhance the process of engagement (Vaughan et al, 2021). During video calls a lot more can be looked at such as patient’s non-verbal reactions to various questions. Such reactions are key in formulating care plans going forward

INFLUENCE OF HEALTH POLICY

Health policy influences the planning and implementation  of capstone projects since they directly deal with patients. One of the healthcare policies in the US is improved access to care for every patient, especially those who live with chronic conditions (Mason et al, 2020). This informs the development of the Affordable Care Act which was formed with the aim of improving access to care. In line with such policy, I encouraged the patient to always seek care and ensure that he adheres with the treatment and management goals and medication schedules. Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) also influenced the intervention. I had to ensure that while integrating telehealth into the intervention I made sure that the telehealth data remained confidential and safe.

OBSERVATIONS ON NURSE’S ROLE IN POLICY IMPLEMENTATION AND DEVELOPMENT

One of the ways of enhancing patient care and outcomes is through policy development and implementation. Various policies can be formulated and be used to influence patient care outcomes (Mason et al., 2020). It is worth noting that the baccalaureate-prepared nurses have a significant role to play in the policy implementation and development. One of the roles is influence policy decision. For example, they can speak to the influential legislators responsible for enacting and passing various laws. They can also offer expert advice on policy matters, especially on policies touching on patient care and healthcare in general. The nurses can also engage in public campaigns to support or oppose certain policies, depending on their impact on healthcare. Again, they can educate members of the public and make policy proposals.

THE PROJECT, PREDICTIONS AND EXPECTATIONS

There were various predictions before the start of the project. The predictions were around the potential health outcomes regarding patient Y who was living with both diabetes and congestive heart failure. One of the predictions was that the patient would have a better glyce


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