Date of Graduation

2017

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Type

DNP

College

School of Nursing

Department

Adult Health

Committee Chair

Marilyn Smith

Committee Co-Chair

Susan Newfield

Committee Member

Mary Jane Smith

Abstract

This quality improvement project examined the effectiveness of the use of the Signs of Suicide Prevention Program for educating 9th grade students. Pre-tests and post-tests were administered to twelve participating students which focused on knowledge about depression, suicide and suicide prevention. A t-test was performed to evaluate a difference in pre-test and post-test scores. A single open-ended question was included on the post-test, "Please write 2 things you could do to prevent suicide?" Results were found to be statistically significant (t(11) = 4.432, p=11), 95% confidence interval (-2.49, -0.84). The overall mean difference was -1.67. Additional descriptive data was collected through group discussion on, "What kind of changes may you see in a friend that could be a potential sign of depression?" Based on review of the test scores and individual and group responses, the implementation of the Signs of Suicide Prevention Program demonstrated potential benefits that a public school system could have by establishing a role in the mental health education and suicide prevention efforts.

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