Date of Degree
Fall 2025
Document Type
DNP Scholarly Project
Academic Department
School of Nursing
Degree Type
Doctoral
Degree Name
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Abstract
Problem: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are one of the most prescribed antidepressant medications in the outpatient psychiatric setting. Abrupt discontinuation or improper tapering of these medications may result in SSRI withdrawal symptoms. Adverse effects may lead to poor patient outcomes and increase healthcare utilization. A baseline chart review and provider readiness survey within the outpatient psychiatric practice revealed inconsistency in provider documentation related to SSRI tapering plans, patient education, and follow-up planning. The gap in practice highlighted the lack of a standardized SSRI tapering protocol to guide evidence-based medication tapering practices and promote patient safety.
Aim: The aim of the quality improvement (QI) project was to implement a standardized SSRI tapering protocol to improve documentation practices and increase patient education regarding SSRI tapering.
Review of Evidence: The current evidence supports a gradual tapering of SSRI medication. Additionally, current evidence supports the importance of clear patient education and follow-up planning in promoting patient-centered care and reducing the risk of withdrawal symptoms. Evidence-based practice emphasizes the importance of standardized approaches to promote consistent practices among providers while maintaining the flexibility to tailor plans to patient-specific needs.
Project Design: The project utilized a QI framework, the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) methodology, and the OhioHealth Change Management Model. In the quality improvement project, the data collection plan included an outcome measure, the consistent use of a standardized tapering protocol for SSRI medications, and three process measures: documentation of the tapering plan, patient education, and documentation of the follow-up plan.
Intervention: The intervention for this project included a standardized tapering protocol, provider education, and electronic medical record (EMR) streamlining and modifications to ensure consistency. Multiple PDSA cycles were conducted to refine the project implementation.
Significant Findings/Outcomes: The results revealed a significant improvement in compliance with process and outcome measures. The SSRI tapering protocol was used. After project implementation, tapering plan documentation was 100%, patient education documentation was 87.5%, and documented follow-up planning was 100%. These significant improvements demonstrated that the interventions led to increased adherence and enhanced provider practices.
Implications for Practice: Implementing a standardized SSRI tapering protocol improved consistency in provider documentation, patient education, and follow-up planning. Embedding the protocol into the EMR enhanced adherence to evidence-based practice, streamlined workflow, and supported sustainability. Improved documentation and standardized tapering fostered patient-centered care, promoted early recognition of withdrawal symptoms, and promoted safe care while potentially reducing adverse outcomes in medication tapering.
Recommended Citation
Sopo-Ngwa, Chelsea, "Implementing a Standardized SSRI Tapering Protocol in the Outpatient Setting" (2025). Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Scholarly Project. 51.
https://fuse.franklin.edu/dnp-project/51
Rights
Copyright, all rights reserved
