Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Projects
Access Control
Open Access
Embargo Period
6-10-2013
Degree Program
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Degree Track
Family Nurse Practioner
Year Degree Awarded
2013
Month Degree Awarded
May
Keywords
cervical cancer, cervical cancer screening, clinical practice guidelines, provider adherence, human papillomavirus, Papanicolaou smear
Advisor
Jean E. DeMartinis
DNP Project Chair
Jean E. DeMartinis, PhD, FNP-BC
DNP Project Member Name
Karen Kalmakis, PhD, FNP-BC
DNP Project Outside Member Name
Mary E. Norato-Indeglia, MSN, MBA, ANP-C
Abstract
Cervical cancer is the second most common malignancy that affects women worldwide (WHO, 2011). Adherence to cervical cancer screening practice guidelines and use of high-quality screening practices by primary care providers (PCPs) can reduce associated rates of morbidity and mortality. With recent changes in practice guidelines stemming from evolving scientific evidence suggesting more frequent screening for cervical cancer leads to overtreatment, providers have not fully adopted newer, less frequent testing when indicated for otherwise healthy women. This research translation project involved the assessment of adherence to cervical cancer screening guidelines of 9 primary care providers (7 physicians and 2 nurse practitioners) employed at an urban outpatient internal medicine practice specializing in women’s care. The 9 providers completed a pre-test of three clinical vignettes to assess baseline knowledge of current guidelines. Post-testing followed an educational intervention on the guidelines, resulting in 100% accuracy for all 9 providers. Participants identified patient understanding of newer guidelines as a barrier to lesser interval screening. Supplying providers with patient education resources creates the opportunity for patient-provider collaboration while enhancing patient-centered care.
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