NURS FPX 4030 Assessment 4 Remote Collaboration and Evidence Based Care

Name

Capella university

NURS-FPX 4030 Making Evidence-Based Decisions

Prof. Name

Date

Remote Collaboration and Evidence-Based Care

Greetings! I am  _________. This evaluation centers on developing a systematic practice for a 50-year-old woman with hypothyroidism residing in a rural area. Hypothyroidism is a medical state in which the thyroid gland does not supply adequate hormones. It results in problems such as tiredness, increased body mass and stress (Molewijk et al., 2024). This paper aims to design a safe, patient-centered care plan supported by evidence-based practices. The emphasis is on hypothyroidism management through a collaborative approach that incorporates current studies, standardized assessment tools and monitoring to address the patient’s needs efficiently.

The Scenario

A 50-year-old woman with hypothyroidism resides in a remote area. It limits her availability to advanced care. She grapples with exhaustion, excess body weight and hopelessness. Her nurse, Lisa, cooperates with a remote team to formulate a treatment proposal. During a virtual consultation, Lisa reported the patient’s symptoms. The endocrinologist suggested starting levothyroxine to regulate thyroid function. The pharmacist emphasized the patient’s need to learn about medication compliance and adverse effects. The dietitian suggested healthy food, such as iodine and selenium. Lisa valued the team’s insights and incorporated their suggestions into the treatment strategy. She scheduled routine virtual check-ins to monitor progress, modify prescriptions, and provide constant support. Lisa also considered involving a mental health counselor to address depressive symptoms. It guarantees complete care despite physical barriers.

Evidence-Based Care Plan

An evidence-based care approach is critical for managing hypothyroidism. It improves patient safety and outcomes. To support her, I would develop a treatment approach to improve her safety and well-being. First, the endocrinologist suggested hormone replacement therapy with levothyroxine. This therapy will fix thyroid function and improve indications. Consistent Thyroid Function Tests (TFTs) will be conducted to monitor the treatment’s efficacy. It includes Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) and Free T4 levels. Education on proper medication use and side effects will ensure the patient understands her treatment plan.

It promotes patient safety and adherence. Next, the pharmacist educates the patient and her relatives about the significance of daily medication compliance. Using tools like the Thyroid-Related Quality of Life Patient-Reported Outcome (ThyPRO), healthcare staff can evaluate the patient’s health recovery. This multidisciplinary collaboration, including education and regular monitoring, is planned to enhance adherence, address concerns, and improve the patient’s health outcomes (Molewijk et al., 2024).

NURS FPX 4030 Assessment 4 Remote Collaboration and Evidence Based Care

The nutritionist recommended that the patient incorporate iodine and selenium-rich foods like fish, dairy, nuts, and lean meats to support thyroid health. The nutritionist will utilize tools like the 24-hour dietary recall and Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) to evaluate her nutritional habits (Kim et al., 2022). These tools will help assess her diet, develop a tailored meal plan, and educate her on healthy food choices. Telehealth offers the advantage of remote consultations, enabling regular virtual check-ins. These sessions will focus on ensuring medication compliance, addressing symptoms, dietary advice, and supporting mental health to alleviate depression (Kumari et al., 2023). Telehealth enables constant monitoring. It facilitates changes to the plan while overcoming the challenges of limited access in rural areas.

The patient is also facing cognitive problems that impact her thinking. To assess and address mental changes related to hypothyroidism, we can utilize Cognitive Function Screening Tools such as CogniFit and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) (Mundada & Dadgal, 2022). Finally, engaging a mental health expert could provide support in managing depression and enhancing her emotional well-being. More data about her home atmosphere and daily habits would also be valuable, as it could guide more personalized advice for her care (Mundada & Dadgal, 2022). Regular virtual check-ins with the team will enable continuous monitoring of her condition and allow necessary adjustments to the care plan. This approach prioritizes her safety. It promotes better health outcomes and provides support during her treatment.

Evidence-Based Practice Model

The Iowa Model of Evidence-Based Practice was employed to direct strategy for the patient with hypothyroidism. This model supports clinicians in making informed decisions by integrating the latest evidence into care. The process begins with identifying a clinical issue, reviewing relevant research, executing the evidence, and tracking outcomes (Bui, 2021). Patients’ indications emphasized the need for an effective care approach. Hypothyroidism was identified as the primary condition that needs attention. Wang et al. (2023), explore recent literature on hypothyroidism management, including guidelines for levothyroxine therapy. It provided valuable insights. Based on this evidence, the healthcare team designed a treatment strategy. The endocrinologist suggested hormone replacement therapy, with ongoing progress to be assessed through regular TFT. This approach reflects the model’s emphasis on translating research findings into clinical practice.

The pharmacist participated by educating the patient on proper medication administration and reducing side effects. The nutritionist supported the patient by optimizing her diet and integrating evidence-based proposals for foods that promote thyroid function. Psychological health support was incorporated, with counseling provided to address depression. Evidence-based research indicates its positive impact on managing mood disorders. Regular follow-up visits were advised to monitor symptom progression and assess the care plan’s success. Patient-reported feedback, such as reduced fatigue and improved mood, will be key indicators of the plan’s success (Bui, 2021). Employing the Iowa Model ensured the care plan was delved into reliable evidence and focused on enhancing the patient’s health. The model benefits the patient by ensuring decisions are driven by the latest data. It is facilitated by telehealth sessions, fostering patient participation and promoting better outcomes (Kumari et al., 2023).

Reflection of Useful and Relevant Evidence

The most useful sources of data for developing the treatment approach for hypothyroidism patients came from reputable medical protocols and established diagnostic tools. Key evidence from the American Thyroid Association (ATA) guidelines was pivotal. These rules outline the effective treatments for hypothyroidism. It includes levothyroxine for hormone replacement. This ensured the plan adhered to current clinical suggestions (ATA, 2024). TFTs were crucial, such as assessing Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) and free T4 levels. These tests offered precise data that confirmed the diagnosis and helped track treatment progress (Wang et al., 2023). These tests were selected due to their reliability and clear interpretation.

Patient’s signs were also taken into account. Evidence suggested that these symptoms improved by achieving balanced thyroid hormone levels. Research on dietary interventions for thyroid health was also beneficial. It indicates that foods high in iodine and selenium support thyroid function. This research reinforced the nutritionist’s advice on enhancing the patient’s diet (Kim et al., 2022). Mental health studies were also examined. Kumari et al. (2023) investigate that individuals with hypothyroidism frequently experience depression, and counseling can help improve their mental well-being. This evidence justified the inclusion of mental health care in the treatment plan.

American Thyroid Association (2024), guidelines are the most useful evidence, providing clear, precise, and applicable patient care data. By utilizing reputable guidelines, diagnostic results, and evidence on nutrition and mental health, it became easier to make informed, safe, and effective decisions for the care plan. These principles provided the most current and reliable suggestions on treating hypothyroidism, such as levothyroxine. It ensured the care plan was built on solid, evidence-based medical advice (ATA, 2024). This resource met the CRAAP criteria as it is current, reliable, and relevant. It addresses the patient’s treatment needs, providing up-to-date and trustworthy data specifically related to hypothyroidism.

Benefits of Interdisciplinary Approaches and Collaboration to Overcome the Challenges

Interdisciplinary collaboration is vital in delivering optimal patient care. The involvement of the endocrinologist, pharmacist, and nutritionist within a collaborative framework enhances their expertise. It leads to better patient outcomes and promotes an effective approach to care. Experts exchange valuable insights and knowledge when working together. It results in safer and more inclusive treatment plans. For instance, the endocrinologist suggested the appropriate treatment for hypothyroidism. The pharmacist provided medication guidance, and the nutritionist contributed dietary changes.

Each expert addresses different aspects of the patient’s care to ensure a more complete approach. However, remote collaboration presents challenges like clear communication during virtual meetings (Kumari et al., 2023). Team members often work from different locations and time zones. It complicates coordination, and technical issues, such as poor internet connectivity, create delays. To address these challenges, establishing a clear communication strategy is essential. Scheduling regular virtual meetings at mutually convenient times, utilizing video conferencing or protected platforms. It ensures everyone stays connected.

A designated team leader streamlines the process by managing updates and assigning tasks. Training staff on the use of technology can help mitigate potential issues (Bennell, 2021). Interdisciplinary collaboration can be improved by prioritizing patient feedback in the future. Patients’ concerns are actively addressed during virtual sessions. Regularly sharing progress reports and reflecting on past experiences enhance teamwork. Remote collaboration can elevate patient outcomes by maintaining strong organizational practices and improving communication. 

Conclusion

The care plan developed for hypothyroidism emphasizes the importance of a patient-centered, evidence-based approach to managing conditions in a rural setting. The plan addresses physical and emotional health challenges by leveraging remote collaboration among an interdisciplinary team. Assessment tools like TFT, dietary assessments, and cognitive screenings ensure the plan is personalized to the patient’s desires. 

References

American Thyroid Association. (2024). Thyroid hormone treatment. American Thyroid Association.

 https://www.thyroid.org/thyroid-hormone-treatment/

Bennell, K. L. (2021). Physiotherapists and patients report positive experiences overall with telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic: A mixed-methods study. Journal of Physiotherapy, 67(3), 201–209. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jphys.2021.06.009

Bui, R. H. (2021). Management of adults with subclinical hypothyroidism in primary care (Publication No. 28712854) [Doctor of Nursing Practice, Oklahoma City University – Kramer School of Nursing]. ProQuest. https://www.proquest.com/openview/118b4fc7e30de6cdb6c9a610b52d02a6/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y 

NURS FPX 4030 Assessment 4 Remote Collaboration and Evidence Based Care

Kim, E.-K., Fenyi, J. O., Kim, J.-H., Kim, M.-H., Yean, S.-E., Park, K.-W., Oh, K., Yoon, S., Takata, K., Park, J., Kim, J.-H., & Yoon, J.-S. (2022). Comparison of total energy intakes estimated by 24-hour diet recall with total energy expenditure measured by the doubly labeled water method in adults. Nutrition Research and Practice, 16(5), 646. https://doi.org/10.4162/nrp.2022.16.5.646

Kumari, Y., Bai, P., Waqar, F., Asif, A. T., Irshad, B., Raj, S., Varagantiwar, V., Kumar, M., & Neha, F. (2023). Advancements in the management of endocrine system disorders and arrhythmias: A comprehensive narrative review. Cureus, 15(10), e46484. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.46484

Molewijk, E., Fliers, E., Dreijerink, Dooren, & Heerdink, R. (2024). Quality of life, daily functioning, and symptoms in hypothyroid patients on thyroid replacement therapy: A Dutch survey. Journal of Clinical & Translational Endocrinology, 35, 100330. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcte.2024.100330

Mundada, P. H., & Dadgal, R. M. (2022). Comparison of dual task training versus aerobics training in improving cognition in healthy elderly population. Cureus, 14(9), e29027. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.29027

Wang, Y., Sun, Y., Yang, B., Wang, Q., & Kuang, H. (2023). The management and metabolic characterization: Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Neuropeptides, 97, 102308. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.npep.2022.102308