Increasing Awareness of Hereditary Fructose Intolerance: An Evidence-Based Practice Implementation Project

Authors

Jacqueline M. Bridge, Sacred Heart UniversityFollow

Document Type

DNP Project

Publication Date

5-2022

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Faculty Advisor

Anna Goddard, Ph.D., APRN

Practice Mentor

Susan DeNisco, DNP, APRN

Abstract

Background: Hereditary Fructose Intolerance (HFI) is an inborn error of metabolism which results in the absence of an effective Aldolase B enzyme. Without this enzyme, ingestion of fructose and metabolic precursors leads to acute illness, multiorgan damage, and possible death. The increased presence of these sugars results in earlier onset of symptoms and more difficulty for those with HFI.

Purpose: The project’s aim is to increase awareness of HFI in healthcare providers using a learning module and assessments of knowledge at three different points in time.

Methods: The IOWA model for evidence-based practice projects was applied during the development and completion of this project. A learning module was used, and knowledge was assessed before, after, and one month after following completion of the module.

Results: Self-reported awareness of HFI increased on a 4-point Likert Scale from 1.6 to 3.06 from preassessment to post-assessment and from 1.5 to 2.8 for awareness of FM. The average amount of symptoms identified as being related to HFI increased from 1.95 to 3.76 (preassessment and post-assessment). Choice of genetic testing increased from 31.3% of participants to 90% in the post-assessment. The selection of dangerous diagnostic tests (IV fructose challenge and hydrogen breath test) decreased from preassessment (24.4% and 35.6%) to post-assessment (23.3% and 16.7%).

Discussion:Education focused on HFI had a significant impact on participants’ knowledge base as seen by the pre and post-test responses. As this project was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, significant attrition from the post-evaluation to the follow-up assessment was seen. Therefore, it is unclear whether the knowledge would be sustained over time. Future reiterations of this project should consider the requirements of all completion of the module within a specified timeframe and should include follow-up post-assessment items.

Comments

A DNP project submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Nursing Practice, Davis & Henley College of Nursing.

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-Share Alike 4.0 International License.

Recommended Citation

Bridge, J. M. (2022). Increasing awareness of hereditary fructose intolerance: An evidence-based practice implementation project [Unpublished DNP project]. Sacred Heart University.