Date of Award

Spring 5-2023

Degree Type

Dissertation/Thesis

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Leadership and Advanced Nursing Practice

Committee Chair

Dr. Lisa Morgan

Committee Chair School

Leadership and Advanced Nursing Practice

Committee Member 2

Dr. Lakenya Forthner

Committee Member 2 School

Leadership and Advanced Nursing Practice

Abstract

Fatty liver disease can be treated if is identified in the initial stages of the disease. Once the disease progresses to fibrosis and/or cirrhosis, there is irreversible damage. The leading cause of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is obesity. Obesity has reached epidemic proportions, with most obese individuals not fully cognizant of the repercussions of prolonged obesity. Other risk factors for fatty liver disease are uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension. Certain medications can also increase the risk of fatty liver disease. Currently, there is no prescreening tool to identify patients who are at risk for fatty liver disease. The researchers developed a prescreening tool in a written format to aid in identifying individuals at risk for fatty liver disease. Once identified as being at risk, the individuals can be instructed on ways to decrease that risk.

The prescreening tool was utilized in a primary clinic setting. Patients who attended the clinic and consented to participate in the study were screened with this tool. Fifteen patients who attended the clinic agreed to participate in the study. The researchers eliminated participants who had already been diagnosed with fatty liver disease or had a history of drug or alcohol abuse. No one under 18 was permitted to participate in the study. Out of the 15 participants, 10 were at risk for developing fatty liver disease. Those 10 participants were then educated on methods to reduce the risk of developing fatty liver disease, including weight loss and the importance of taking prescription medications directed to control any disease processes. The participants were followed up over four weeks, either in person at the clinic or via telehealth visits. The results show that, out of the 10 participants, three lost four pounds, five lost two pounds, and two did not lose any weight. Out of 10 participants, two took medication for diabetes and four took medication for hyperlipidemia. They all demonstrated compliance with taking the medication regularly and were knowledgeable about the medication. The results showed that most of the participants were able to demonstrate knowledge of methods to decrease their risk for fatty liver disease.

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