Educating School Nurses about Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Associated Cancers and the Importance of HPV Vaccination.

Abstract

Purpose: To assess and improve school nurse knowledge of HPV-associated cancers.

Design: An experimental quality improvement study.

Methods: At a continuing education regional conference, an interactive HPV education session was provided. Pre- and post-education surveys were completed by attendees.

Findings: After the educational intervention, 89.9% of nurses indicated a change in knowledge and 83.2% indicated a planned change in practice.

Conclusions: An education intervention aimed at school nurses can be impactful in broadening the understanding of HPV oncogenesis.

Clinical evidence: Educational interventions can be a strategy to increase school nurse knowledge and subsequently patient knowledge about HPV associated cancers.