Improving Sexual Health Screening in a Pediatric Primary Care Office: A Quality Improvement Project.
Date of this Version
12-2025
Document Type
DNP Project
Abstract
Adolescent population remains disproportionately affected by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other preventable health outcomes, yet national data still confirms that sexual health screening during routine visits is inconsistent on consultations (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2021). The purpose of this Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project is to implement and evaluate a structured and staff-tailored educational intervention designed to increase pediatric setting providers confidence, knowledge and increase adherence to adolescent sexual health screening guidelines in daily practice. Eight pediatric providers, including physicians, nurse practitioners, and medical assistants, completed a pre-test, participated in a multimedia educational module, and completed a post-test survey 30 days after initial intervention. Outcomes include demographic data, knowledge scores, and provider confidence ratings measured on a 5-point Likert scale. Results: Post-test scores demonstrated an increase in correct responses across guideline-based knowledge domains and a mean improvement in provider confidence scores from pre- to post-test. Participants also reported stronger commitment to maintaining confidentiality and integrating screening into routine workflows. Findings confirm that provider-focused education in a pediatric practice setting is a feasible and effective strategy for improving adherence to adolescent sexual health screening guidelines. This project supports the role of advanced practice nurses in leading sustainable, evidence-based interventions that directly address nationally recognized gaps in preventive pediatric care.
Recommended Citation
SARLI, GLENDA, "Improving Sexual Health Screening in a Pediatric Primary Care Office: A Quality Improvement Project." (2025). Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing Student Projects. 383.
https://digitalcommons.fiu.edu/cnhs-studentprojects/383