Abstract
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States. In 2006, the first HPV vaccine was approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) for use in adolescents. Since the introduction of the HPV vaccine, uptake has been sub-par compared to other vaccinations. The clinical problem is inadequate HPV vaccination rates and the continual rise of some HPV-related cancers. The project purpose is to increase HPV vaccination rates in a primary care clinic by providing education to providers, nursing staff, adolescent patients and families on HPV. The aims of the project include: providers utilization of CDC educational tools presented to them during an educational session at clinic visits and providers and nurses using every adolescent visit as an opportunity to vaccinate. The project is aligned with Lewin's Change Theory model. The approach chosen for the project is a 3-step quality improvement intervention process. The first step is implementing provider and nurse education on HPV vaccination and the importance of strong provider recommendation. The second step is delivery of CDC written materials on HPV vaccination by the clinic nurse to families when rooming adolescents. The third step is use of CDC educational materials and scripts by providers during the clinic visit with parents and adolescents. Provider and parent surveys were developed to evaluate the project. Survey data and clinic vaccination rates pre- and post-project implementation were analyzed. An increase in vaccination rates at the clinic was demonstrated. Parent's survey results listed provider recommendation and educational handouts given during the clinic visit as reasons for vaccinating children. Knowledge gained from this capstone project showed use of CDC educational materials and scripts as part of a clinic process to support educational interventions can contribute to improved HPV uptake.