Keeping Primary Care Providers Informed about Detecting Skin Cancer in Young Adults

Author

Riley J. Spears, Valparaiso University

Date of Award

5-3-2021

Degree Type

Evidence-Based Project Report

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Department

Nursing

First Advisor

Frances Clark

Abstract

Skin cancer is a common, life-threatening disease that affects anyone, regardless of age or skin color (American Cancer Society [ACS], 2020). The incidence of melanoma is on the rise for young adults, with an estimated 2,400 new cases for individuals aged 15 to 29 (ACS, 2020). Although skin cancer is highly preventable, clinical guidelines are inconsistent regarding skin cancer screening. The purpose of this evidence-based practice (EBP) project was to determine if the implementation of the INternet curriculum FOR Melanoma Early Detection (INFORMED) program would improve primary care providers’ (PCPs’) confidence about skin cancer and the number of completed and documented skin assessments for young adults. Three PCPs employed at a student health center in Northwest Indiana participated in the 12-week long EBP project. Providers were instructed to complete a demographic form, pre-survey, the INFORMED program, and a post-survey. A skin assessment policy was created which required PCPs to apply their knowledge and diagnostic skills in the primary care setting. Two major outcomes were evaluated: providers’ confidence about skin cancer and the completion and documentation of a skin assessment. Providers’ confidence levels were measured with a pre- and post-survey. A paired t-test was calculated to determine if providers’ confidence about skin cancer improved after they completed the INFORMED program. Statistical significance was achieved for distinguishing benign lesions from malignant lesions (t (2) = -5.000, p = 0.038). A chi-square test of independence was calculated to compare the number of skin assessments completed and documented in 2019 and 2020. No significant relationship was found. Overall, providers were satisfied with the INFORMED program and felt that the program was valuable for their clinical practice. Results of this project could be used to encourage widespread dissemination of the INFORMED program in larger primary care settings in the United States.

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Recommended Citation

Spears, Riley J., "Keeping Primary Care Providers Informed about Detecting Skin Cancer in Young Adults" (2021). Evidence-Based Practice Project Reports. 175.
https://scholar.valpo.edu/ebpr/175