Graduation Semester and Year

Spring 2025

Language

English

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Department

Nursing

First Advisor

Christi Nguyen

Abstract

Introduction: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a major cause of several cancers, and vaccination is a highly effective preventive measure. However, HPV vaccination rates remain suboptimal, particularly in rural pediatric populations. This quality improvement (QI) project aims to enhance HPV vaccination rates through the implementation of a comprehensive vaccination bundle targeting provider education, patient and parent education, appointment reminders, and the use of a vaccine waiver when needed.

Method: This QI project was conducted over twelve weeks in a rural pediatric clinic with approximately 130 patients seen daily. The intervention bundle included provider education on effective communication regarding HPV vaccination, educational materials presented in layperson’s terms, phone reminders for well-child appointments, and a vaccine waiver for those who declined vaccination. Data were collected before and after the intervention on vaccination status, appointment adherence, and waiver usage and compared to the same time the previous year.

Results: The intervention resulted in a measurable increase in HPV vaccination rates, with a higher percentage of patients showing up for appointments post-reminder calls. The use of appointment reminders and education significantly reduced the number patients that refused the vaccine along with the increasing the use of the waiver when the vaccine is refused.

Conclusion/Discussion: This project demonstrates that a multi-faceted intervention bundle can successfully improve HPV vaccination rates in a rural pediatric clinic. Provider education, patient/parent education in layperson’s terms, and appointment reminders are effective strategies for overcoming barriers to vaccination.

Key Words: HPV vaccination, quality improvement, pediatric healthcare, rural health, provider education, patient education, vaccination rates

Keywords

HPV vaccination, quality improvement, pediatric healthcare, rural health, provider education, patient education, vaccination rates

Disciplines

Pediatric Nursing | Quality Improvement

License

Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

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