Date of Award
Spring 5-22-2025
Document Type
Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Manuscript
Degree Name
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Department
Nursing
First Advisor
Joseph Burkard, DNSc, CRNA, EBP-C, AACN Health Policy Fellow
Second Advisor
Katie Lais, DNP, PMHNP-BC
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Mental health disorders affect over 1 in 7 individuals aged 10 to 19 globally. In low- and middle-income countries like Uganda, limited access to mental health specialists and pervasive stigma exacerbate the gap in care. Nurses, often the first point of contact, typically lack adequate pediatric mental health training. The proposal aims to address this gap by equipping nurses with the knowledge and competencies to identify, intervene, and support children with mental health disorders. Purpose: This proposal advocates for implementing targeted, continuing education in pediatric mental health for Ugandan nurses. The goal is to enhance the quality of care, alleviate the burden on specialized mental health services, and create a more supportive healthcare environment. Methods: Consultations with stakeholders, identified critical knowledge gaps, cultural beliefs, and systemic challenges. The evidence-based curriculum will focus on early identification and intervention, delivered in accessible formats using local and international expertise. Intervention: The proposal draws on global best practices to enhance nurses’ competencies in symptom identification and psychosocial support. It integrates culturally sensitive approaches aimed at reducing stigma and strengthening Uganda’s mental health system. Results: The program will assess improvements in nurses’ knowledge, behavior, and patient care using tools such as Kirkpatrick’s four-level model and the Mental Health Knowledge Questionnaire (MHKQ). Expected outcomes include improved assessment and management of pediatric mental health disorders. Conclusion: Integrating targeted pediatric mental health education into nursing practice in Uganda is both essential and strategic. Culturally relevant, evidence-based training can improve care delivery, reduce stigma, and contribute to strengthening Uganda’s healthcare infrastructure.
8 Keywords: pediatric mental health, nursing education, Uganda, low-resource settings, mental health training, health policy, RE-AIM framework, stigma, mental health intervention, community healthcare, evidence-based practice, nurses' training
Digital USD Citation
Perez, Giselle S., "Policy Proposal for Integrating Pediatric Mental Health into Nursing Practice in Uganda" (2025). Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Manuscripts. 310.
https://digital.sandiego.edu/dnp/310
Copyright
Copyright held by the author
