Date of this Version

11-28-2022

Document Type

DNP Project

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most reported health issues in ambulatory care. However, in half of all sexually active women of childbearing age, the presence of urinary symptoms is associated with a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Providers often lack knowledge on this topic, limiting opportunities for STI screening among those at increased risk for these infections.

Objective: The purpose of this quality improvement project was to increase provider knowledge of sexual health history taking and STI screening among providers working at a walk-in clinic.

Methods: Using a quasi-experimental pre-/post-intervention design, providers working at a walk-in (retail) clinic were recruited to participate in the project. Baseline knowledge of sexual health history taking and STI/UTI screening was assessed. This was followed by an educational module on the topic and post-intervention assessment of topic knowledge.

Results: A total of 24 providers were recruited for the project including 22 females (92%). Mean pretest knowledge scores calculated at baseline were 9.875 and increased to 19.5 post-implementation. The results were compared using a paired t-test and were found to be statistically significant, p < 0.000.

Conclusions: The results of this quality improvement project suggest that provider education can increase knowledge of sexual health history and STI screening in sexually active women seen in a walk-in clinic. The results are evidence-based and indicate that action should be taken to extend and expand the program at the practice site to improve patient care.

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