Increasing Screening for the Use of Long-Acting Reversible Contraception
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Authors
Harrs, Adrianna
Issue Date
2021-05-05
Type
Thesis
Language
en_US
Keywords
Research Subject Categories::INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH AREAS::Caring sciences::Nursing , Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives , Patient Education , Health Screening , Contraceptive Agents
Alternative Title
Description/Abstract
The purpose of this project is to determine if a contraceptive screening tool utilized by care providers in a primary care practice would increase patient selection of long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC) as a contraceptive choice. Methods: The family nurse practitioner at a rural women's health practice in North Carolina was given an educational presentation on the safety and efficacy of LARC methods and appropriate utilization of the screening tool. Ancillary office staff who had direct contact with patients were also educated on the administration of the screening tool to eligible participants. A chart review was then performed to determine screening tool adherence and LARC uptake during project implementation. Results: Overall adherence to the screening tool was approximately 20%, with 30% of women screened choosing a LARC method. Analysis demonstrated a weak correlation between screening tool use and LARC uptake. The small sample size and low rates of adherence may limit the generalizability of this project. Conclusions: Outcomes for this project demonstrated a poor relationship between LARC screening and the selection of LARC as a contraceptive choice. Numerous limitations may have affected project outcomes. This project highlights the need for further research to bridge the gap between LARC education and LARC choice in the primary care setting.