Development and Evaluation of a Protocol: Increasing Screening for Chlamydia Infection Amongst Young Adults and Teenagers at an Urban Clinic
Abstract Problem: The United States has a problem of increasing rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In Kansas, the rates have increased significantly in recent years, particularly among the adolescent population. The predominant STI is chlamydia, which can be asymptomatic 70-90% of the time leading to lack of identification and diagnosis, as well as leading to long-term consequences. With adolescents from urban areas being more vulnerable to infection and less receptive to receiving education in the traditional manner, one recommendation is to provide consistent screening and education in a form that is appealing to that target population.Aim: The aim of this quality improvement project was to develop an evidence-based protocol and education toolkit for chlamydia screening amongst adolescents at an urban primary care clinic. The protocol was designed to increase screening of chlamydia amongst adolescents in the community. Additionally, an engaging educational platform was developed for young patients on available screening processes for chlamydia. Method: Following a thorough review of literature and after exploring the clinic’s current screening process, an evidence-based practice protocol was developed for an underserved clinic in urban Wyandotte County, Kansas. In addition to the protocol, an education website and poster was designed for display to increase patient awareness of available screenings. The practice protocol and educational toolkit were then evaluated by clinic providers and staff using the AGREE II tool. Results: After evaluation of the protocol and educational toolkit, comments and feedback were considered, and a revised protocol and teaching toolkit were provided. Increased knowledge of available screening, diagnosis, and treatment of STIs in this vulnerable population and setting may improve screening rates in the adolescent population leading to improved health outcomes. Keywords: chlamydia, screening, adolescent, STD screening, STI screening
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