Course Name
Clinical Improvement Project II CAPSTONE
Graduation Year
12-2026
Faculty Advisor
Michelle Dang, PhD, RN, PHN
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) is an increasing public health concern among adolescents in the United States. Lifestyle factors contribute to this, including unhealthy dietary habits, a lack of physical activity, and inadequate sleep. Providing early education is essential to promoting healthy behaviors and reducing future health risks. This quality improvement project is aimed at increasing high school students’ knowledge and awareness of T2D risk factors and prevention strategies through evidence-based intervention. The project was implemented at Benjamin Holt College Preparatory Academy in Stockton, California, among students in grades 9-12. Students participated in an interactive educational session addressing T2D risk factors, nutrition, physical activity, and healthy lifestyle modifications. Activities included a MyPlate exercise, a sugar in beverages demonstration, and a goal setting discussion to reinforce learning. Anonymous pre-intervention and one week follow up surveys were used to assess changes in knowledge and retention. The project aimed to achieve at least a 10% improvement in knowledge post intervention. An 18.2% increase in knowledge scores from pre-survey and post-survey results was found. School-based health education provides an opportunity to increase adolescents’ awareness of T2D prevention and encourage a change to healthier lifestyle choices. This project highlights the role of a nursing-led educational intervention in promoting early preventative health behaviors within adolescents.
Keywords
Type 2 Diabetes, Adolescents, Education, high school, diabetes prevention
Recommended Citation
Shergill, Amber; Gonzales, Melissa; Mendez, Sabrina; and Neves, Ian, "Type 2 Diabetes Prevention Education in Adolescents" (2026). ELMSN E-Portfolio. A collection of Scholarly and Creative Works. 56.
https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/nursing-portfolios/56
