Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Projects
Access Control
Open Access
Degree Program
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Degree Track
Family Nurse Practioner
Year Degree Awarded
2021
DOI
https://doi.org/10.7275/22745433
Month Degree Awarded
May
Keywords
Vietnamese Buddhist nuns, Vietnamese American Women, Southeast Asian –American Women, health screening, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, chronic disease screening, evidence-based intervention
Advisor
Dr. Kalpana Poudel-Tandukar
DNP Project Chair
Dr. Kalpana Poudel-Tandukar
Abstract
Abstract
Background: According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death (31%) worldwide. Out of those cases, 85% are due to heart attack and stroke. Hypertension is among the most modifiable risk factors for the development of cardiovascular diseases. Since Vietnamese Buddhist nuns have diets high in salt, this makes them at higher risk for hypertension and CVDs.
Purpose: This educational project aims to improve cardiovascular health knowledge among Vietnamese Buddhist nuns in the greater Seattle area by implementing culturally tailored community-based health education programs virtually via phone.
Methods: A community-based educational program on CVDs for Vietnamese Buddhist nuns was presented virtually via phone by the DNP student in individual sessions. This session included pre-and post-educational tests to assess CVD knowledge and its prevention among Buddhist nuns. This project used evidence-based knowledge to provide culturally-tailored information on CVD for the Vietnamese Buddhist nuns, who are an under-served population in the Seattle area. The assessment of knowledge was done before and after intervention using a survey questionnaire.
Results: Five Buddhist nun participants showed an overall improvement of CVDs knowledge after the post-intervention section. The percentage of correct responses to general knowledge about CVDs improved 28% from 64% (pre-intervention) to 92% (post-intervention). The percentage of participants that reported right answers about CVDs signs / symptoms was increased by 40%, and high salt intake, stress level and family history of CVDs were all increased by 20% respectively. Therefore, the desired project goal was achieved.
Conclusion: All the nun participants' CVDs knowledge was improved after the education session. This community-based educational program empowers nuns to seek early care for their health, reduces the fear of stigma about health and religious practices, and increases their common knowledge about CVDs.
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