Date of Graduation
Spring 5-17-2019
Document Type
Project
Degree Name
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
College/School
School of Nursing and Health Professions
Department/Program
Nursing
Program
Family Nurse Practitioner
First Advisor
Dr. Prabjot Sandhu, DNP, FNP-C, PA-C, CNL
Second Advisor
Dr. Jo Loomis, DNP, FNP-C, CHSE, CLC, ANLC, NCMP, CNL
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Mammogram screening for surveillance and detection of breast cancer has long been recognized as a preventative health measure for women. However, easily recognizing when to screen individual women, based on age and risk factors, lacks clear guidance and often ends in fragmented and inconsistent practices among providers.
Methods: By developing and implementing the Screening Mammogram Initiation Protocol (SMIP), the desired goals of this project were to: a) align breast cancer screening recommendations to better meet individualized patient needs in primary care utilizing best practice guidelines, b) increase the rate of breast cancer screening across various demographics, and c) create a standardized screening protocol tool that increases shared decision making based on individual risk factors. Outcome measures were reflected by an increase in provider knowledge towards female breast health counseling, an increase in rates of breast cancer screening discussions, and the successful implementation of the SMIP at a local primary care clinic.
Results: Responses from the pre/post knowledge and post-implementation surveys showed improved provider understanding of the current breast cancer screening guidelines for average and high-risk females as well as 90% satisfaction utilizing the SMIP in practice. Electronic data collection after nine-weeks showed an eight percent increase in referrals for women aged 40-49 eligible for breast cancer screening and seven percent increase in referrals for women aged 50-59 respectively.
Conclusion: This evidence-based change in practice project improved the quality of care by enhancing preventative health delivery, contributed to increased screening, and likely impacted breast cancer morbidity, and mortality rates.
Recommended Citation
Go, Lacrisha, "Standardizing Mammogram Screening in Primary Care: Integrating an Evidence Based Approach" (2019). Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Projects. 175.
https://repository.usfca.edu/dnp/175
