Educating About Hyperlipidemia and Diet to Increase Knowledge and Awareness of Risk Factors

Abstract

Purpose: Hyperlipidemia has been identified in over three million persons in the United States and Europe, and the number is constantly increasing (Hill & Bordoni, 2022). Many people are uninformed of the need to control hyperlipidemia and are unaware of the severe problems that might result from this condition. This study intends to increase awareness of hyperlipemia by educating participants about the necessity of hyperlipemia management through a booklet and provider education. Background: Hyperlipidemia is an excess of fats or lipids in the body (Cleveland Clinic, 2022). Extra lipids or fats cause issues by forming plaque in the blood vessels, restricting blood flow via the arteries (Mayo Clinic, 2023). Atherosclerosis is caused by the deposition of cholesterol-causing plaque, which can lead to a heart attack, stroke, coronary artery disease, carotid artery disease, peripheral artery disease, microvascular disease, and sudden cardiac arrest (Cleveland Clinic, 2022). Methods: Flyers were posted in the clinic of Dr. Eric Chwa, and patients who want to participate have signed consent and agreed to partake in the quality improvement (QI) project. Patients first received a pretest to test their baseline knowledge. After the pretest, they were given a pamphlet and a 15-minute education about hyperlipidemia. After the completion of the in-person instruction, the patient took a posttest. Results: Twelve participants took part in the QI Project. A comparison of the pre-and posttest shows a 16% improvement in test scores. A paired t-test conducted on the pre-and posttests shows a statistical significance that the Quality Improvement Project improved patients' understanding of hyperlipidemia. Conclusion: The quality improvement project improved patient's understanding and awareness of risk factors. However, data may be skewed due to its limited sample size.