Mentor/s
Rosemary Lovallo
Participation Type
Poster
Abstract
Hypertension and diabetes are two of the most prevalent yet under diagnosed chronic conditions that disproportionately affect underserved populations. Often asymptomatic in early stages, these "silent killers" frequently remain undetected until patients present to the emergency department (ED) with severe, life-threatening complications. This project explores the recurring issue of patients arriving at the ED with uncontrolled hypertension and diabetes, many of whom are unaware of their diagnosis or lack the resources to manage these conditions effectively. Through a detailed analysis of patient data, clinical case studies, and current literature, the project identifies systemic gaps in chronic disease education, early screening, and follow-up care within the ED setting.
Focusing on Bridgeport Hospital as a model site, this intervention aims to empower ED nurses to take a proactive role in chronic disease management by implementing individualized education, culturally competent care strategies, and digital health tools such as QR code-accessible resources. These tools are designed to enhance patient understanding, promote self-management post-discharge, and reduce repeat ED visits. By addressing healthcare disparities and integrating inclusive practices, this work proposes sustainable solutions to improve long-term health outcomes and reduce the economic burden on emergency departments. Ultimately, it demonstrates the ED as a critical point of intervention for chronic disease management and equitable care delivery.
College and Major available
Nursing BSN
Academic Level
Undergraduate student
Location
Digital Commons & West Campus West Building University Commons
Start Day/Time
4-25-2025 12:00 PM
End Day/Time
4-25-2025 2:00 PM
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 4.0 License
Hypertension & Diabetes in the ED: Unpacking Uncontrolled Co-morbities
Digital Commons & West Campus West Building University Commons
Hypertension and diabetes are two of the most prevalent yet under diagnosed chronic conditions that disproportionately affect underserved populations. Often asymptomatic in early stages, these "silent killers" frequently remain undetected until patients present to the emergency department (ED) with severe, life-threatening complications. This project explores the recurring issue of patients arriving at the ED with uncontrolled hypertension and diabetes, many of whom are unaware of their diagnosis or lack the resources to manage these conditions effectively. Through a detailed analysis of patient data, clinical case studies, and current literature, the project identifies systemic gaps in chronic disease education, early screening, and follow-up care within the ED setting.
Focusing on Bridgeport Hospital as a model site, this intervention aims to empower ED nurses to take a proactive role in chronic disease management by implementing individualized education, culturally competent care strategies, and digital health tools such as QR code-accessible resources. These tools are designed to enhance patient understanding, promote self-management post-discharge, and reduce repeat ED visits. By addressing healthcare disparities and integrating inclusive practices, this work proposes sustainable solutions to improve long-term health outcomes and reduce the economic burden on emergency departments. Ultimately, it demonstrates the ED as a critical point of intervention for chronic disease management and equitable care delivery.
Students' Information
Janessa Marchegiani, Bachelors of Science in Nursing, Honors Minor, May 2025
Hannah Parath, Bachelors of Science in Nursing, May 2025