Date of Graduation

5-2025

Document Type

Capstone

Keywords

patient perception, outcome, chronic disease, chronic illness, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, NAFLD, MAFLD, MASLD, and fatty liver

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Degree Level

Graduate

Advisor/Mentor

Shreve, Marilou

Committee Member

Kruse, Carmel

Abstract

Abstract

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease is a chronic condition that often coexists with metabolic disorders and impacts a significant portion of the global population. The literature indicates that patients’ perceptions are linked to outcomes; however, there is a gap in the literature examining the influence of these perceptions on the outcomes of metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease. This clinical inquiry investigated this relationship.

METHODS: Data collection occurred between January and February 2025 in a primary care setting, utilizing a 5-point Likert scale of patients’ perceptions of care, disease severity, and self-efficacy. Patients were identified through a retrospective chart review and were approached for the perceptions survey. The participating Federally Qualified Health Center has participated in several clinical trials addressing metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease. Participants were separated depending on whether they had previously participated in one of the clinical trials or not. Perception scores were compared to hemoglobin A1C, aspartate transferase, alanine transaminase, and body mass index. Descriptive statistics were conducted to conclude how patients’ perceptions influence outcomes.

RESULTS: Seven participants completed the survey. Mean perception scores for those previously enrolled in a clinical trial compared to those not enrolled include the following: perceptions of care (5.0 vs. 4.5), perceptions of disease severity (2.3 vs. 3.8), and perceptions of self-efficacy (5.0 vs. 4.25). A positive correlation was found in hemoglobin A1C (Durbin-Watson = 1) with no correlation in body mass index (Durbin-Watson = 2.23) for those enrolled in a clinical trial. A negative correlation was found in hemoglobin A1C (Durbin-Watson = 2.781) and body mass index (Durbin-Watson = 2.95) for those not enrolled in a clinical trial.

CONCLUSION: Positive patient perceptions may improve outcomes in those at risk for or diagnosed with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. Strategies should focus on enhancing patient self-motivation and coping skills to mitigate health risks associated with this disease.

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