Using Evidenced-Based Practice to Increase Knowledge and Awareness of Sexually Transmitted Infections

Abstract

Purpose. The purpose of this quality improvement (QI) project is to increase the knowledge and intent to change practice through education on the importance in assessing sexual health history in patients at a federally qualified health center (FQHC) in Western Washington State by providing continuing education to primary care providers.Background. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), there are millions of new sexually transmitted infections (STIs) occurring every year. Left untreated, STIs can cause short- and long-term health consequences in patients. Primary care providers serve a key role in the prevention of STIs. Methods. Primary care providers at a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in Western Washington State were eligible for participation. A total of two participants out of fifteen participated in the voluntary QI project. The project used a pre-post survey design aimed to increase primary care provider knowledge of STIs and intent to change practice for the assessment and screening of risk factors in a primary care population by providing a ten-minute continuing education video. Survey questions were multiple choice and three Likert scale questions about knowledge gained and intent to change practice. The CDC’s five Ps were utilized in the education to highlight the importance of taking a comprehensive sexual health history and risk assessment. Results. There was a decrease in pre-survey scores from post-survey scores after the implementation, although there was not a significant difference between the averages (p>0.5). However, participants did report an increase in knowledge gained regarding sexual health history, risk factors, for STIs, and an intent to change practice. Conclusions. Due to a small sample size and low recruitment, there was no statistical significance between pre-survey and post-survey responses. However, participants did report an increase in knowledge gained regarding sexual health history, risk factors for STIs, and an intent to change practice based on the information provided. Future projects may focus on an alert or indicator in the electronic health record (EHR) or a validated tool to assist providers in acquiring this information in a timely fashion.