Date of Doctor of Nursing Practice Project Completion
Winter 12-8-2023
Faculty Advisor
Dr. Nancy Crider
Abstract
Decreasing Skin Infections in High School Wrestlers
PURPOSE The purpose of this quality improvement project was to reduce the skin infection rates by implementing protocols designed to prevent infections by focusing on disinfection and screening practices. The project aims to reduce skin infection rates in wrestlers at a private boy’s high school. Long-term goals include enhancing awareness among high school wrestlers to maintain a healthy lifestyle and prevent sport-related skin infections.
BACKGROUND The project was implemented in a private boy’s high school wrestling team composed of 50 wrestlers in grades 9-12, located in Houston, Texas.
METHODOLOGY A daily log was utilized to track mat cleaning with a spray pump using Kenclean Plus and a weekly log was utilized to track twice weekly skin checks made by coaches. The data was kept in a locked wrestling closet. Employing the PDSA method, the project tested these interventions.
RESULTS The project met goals with zero infections. Fifty wrestlers complied with mat cleaning, showing increased awareness. With a p-value of 0.0011, well below the standard 0.05, the statistical difference was significant, indicating mat cleaning's efficacy in reducing wrestler skin infections. There was a 19.5% drop in skin infections from the previous wrestling season.
IMPLICATIONS Implementing daily mat cleaning and regular skin checks effectively reduces skin infection rates among high school wrestlers, addressing hygiene issues. Education on hygiene importance is crucial. Unexpected outcomes and limitations include adherence challenges and variable product effectiveness.
Results emphasize hygiene protocols' significance. Further research and education are essential for sustained improvement.
Keywords
skin infections, mat cleaning, decrease, wrestlers, reduce, hygiene
Recommended Citation
Villarreal Mathews, Adrienne, "Decreasing Skin Infections in High School Wrestlers" (2023). Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Project Abstract. 7.
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/dnp_abstract/7