Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Projects
Access Control
Campus Access
Degree Program
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Degree Track
Post Master's DNP Completion
Year Degree Awarded
2023
DOI
https://doi.org/10.7275/35540159
Month Degree Awarded
May
Keywords
child sexual abuse and teen pregnancy, ACEs screening, adolescent pregnancy, teen pregnancy in United States, teen pregnancy prevention
Advisor
Dr. Mary Ellen Burke DNP, RN, CNM, CNE
DNP Project Chair
Dr. Mary Ellen Burke DNP, RN, CNM, CNE
DNP Project Outside Member Name
Dr. Samantha Baras, MD and Gillian Berenstein MSN, CPNP
Abstract
Background: Females with histories of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are at greater risk for pregnancy as adolescents. There is a lack of knowledge about, and screening for histories of ACEs among adolescents. Purpose: To increase health care providers’ knowledge about the relationship between a history of ACEs and adolescent pregnancy, and the importance of screening for childhood adversity among adolescents. Methods: An educational program was developed based on evidence-based research on individuals with ACEs having higher rates of adolescent pregnancy compared to those who had not. Health care providers’ knowledge of the association between a history of ACEs and adolescent pregnancy, and importance of screening for ACEs was measured using a pre and post assessment tool. Results: Fifty percent of pediatric providers in an urban community health center in Boston participated in the educational program. One hundred percent of participants believed adolescent pregnancy was associated with a history of ACEs; and 66.67% routinely screened for ACEs in their practice prior to the program. One hundred percent of participants reported intentions to screen after the program. Following the educational program and a discussion about the importance of screening and possible interventions to implement when screening, 100% of participants reported plans to screen. Conclusion: An increase was seen in the knowledge of providers about the relationship between ACEs and adolescent pregnancy and importance of screening. Participants reported an increase in intentions to screen routinely for ACEs. Time remains a barrier to providing comprehensive services to patients. Patients are referred to the behavioral health department for further discussion, follow up and supportive services.
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