Date of Award

Spring 5-22-2021

Document Type

Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Manuscript

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Department

Nursing

First Advisor

Martha Fuller, PhD, PPCNP-BC

Second Advisor

Tara Kelly, DNP, ANP-BC, ONP-C

Abstract

Purpose of Project: The ultimate goal of this short-term pilot project is for

overweight or obese osteoarthritis patients to increase their knowledge on the benefits of

weight loss and physical activity. Research shows that for every kilogram of weight lost,

2.2–4.0 kilograms of weight is taken off of the joint and could reduce joint pain up to

thirty to fifty percent and improve quality of life. Following education from the provider,

patients will understand the correlation of osteoarthritis symptom management with

weight loss.

EBP Model/Frameworks: This project utilizes the Iowa Model of Evidence-Based

Practice to Promote Quality Care. This addresses implementing practice change in a

specialty care outpatient setting to improve patient outcomes.

Evidence Based Interventions: This project provided an educational intervention

to overweight or obese osteoarthritis patients seen in an ambulatory orthopedics clinic in

an urban, Southern California city. A follow-up telephone intervention was conducted

after one-month to assess their motivation for physical activity. A “smart phrase” will be

available in EPIC™ (electronic health record) for future implementation.

Evaluation/Results: At one-month, fifty percent of patients showed an

improvement (or maintenance) in their readiness for physical activity.

Implications for Practice: Both obesity and osteoarthritis can be debilitating to

quality of life. This conservative approach to osteoarthritis management can be cost

effective in preventing hospitalization and lost wages.

Conclusion: Nurse practitioner education on the benefits of weight management

and osteoarthritis increases patient education and readiness for physical activity.

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