Sexually Transmitted Infection Screening in a University Student Health Clinic
Date of Degree
12-2019
Document Type
Doctoral Project
Degree Name
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Program
Nursing
Advisor
Jean Dowling Dols
Advisor
Corinne Jedynak-Bell
Abstract
Background:University campus students have rates of sexually transmitted infections higher than the general population. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are the most common sexually transmitted infections. If untreated, these infections can lead to an array of complications for individuals involved.
Purpose and Objectives:This quality improvement initiative was designed to increase the number of student patients screened for sexually transmitted infections at a primary care clinic on a south Texas faith-based university campus.
Methods:Clinical tools were provided to assist in screening asymptomatic high-risk patients. A protocol for expedited partner therapy was created in accordance with clinical practice guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2018a) and Texas Department of State Health Services (2018b). Interventions included provider and clinic staff education regarding rates of sexually transmitted infections on campus, student education, techniques for a thorough sexual health history, and use of a screening tool. Promotion of clinic services and education about sexually transmitted diseases were shared via social media and via print in the form of flyers and an article in the student newspaper. Dormitory talks and education booths set up at wellness fairs and on campus provided face-to-face opportunities for student education.
Results:At completion of the project 97.7% (n = 416) of 426 patients were screened, 56.5% (n = 235) were classified as high-risk per self-reporting, and 28.1% (n = 117) were tested for sexually transmitted infections. Of the patients tested, 12.0% (n = 14) were positive for either chlamydia or gonorrhea. The social media component generated a 25.4% (n = 84) increase in followers on Twitter and a 100% (n = 132) increase in followers across Instagram and Snapchat.
Recommended Citation
Rendon-Cazarez, Vanessa, "Sexually Transmitted Infection Screening in a University Student Health Clinic" (2019). Doctor of Nursing Practice. 69.
https://athenaeum.uiw.edu/uiw_dnp/69