Date of Award
2024
Document Type
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Degree Name
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Department
Nursing
Committee Chair
Darlene Showalter
Committee Member
Jean J. Philippe
Subject(s)
Preconception care, Reproductive health services, Folic acid in human nutrition, Patient education
Abstract
Unintended pregnancy, a significant public health concern in the United States, is linked to poor health outcomes due to inadequate preconception care. This DNP project aimed to enhance preventive reproductive health services for reproductive-age women (ages 18 to 44) in a primary care clinic in metropolitan Atlanta, Georgia. Recognizing the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American Academy of Primary Care Physicians, Center for Disease Control and Prevention, and Healthy People 2030's recommendations for preventive reproductive screening, and daily folic acid intake pre- pregnancy, the project focused on implementing a reproductive screening tool to assess pregnancy risk, and folic acid intake. Healthcare providers were educated on an algorithmic approach to patient screening using the 'One Key Question' initiative to guide discussions about pregnancy desires and leading to tailored reproductive counseling and care. This clinical practice change project, involving eight healthcare providers, aimed at optimizing reproductive health outcomes by aligning with national health guidelines. Thirty- three reproductive age women participated in the project. The women (N=33) were screened for pregnancy risk, given pre- pregnancy counseling and handed a bottle of folic acid upon discharge. The total number of women who received preconception counseling received was 31. The same group of 31 received folic acid and 22 continued with daily intake of folic acid after two weeks. Based on the result, use of the OKQ tool increases screening and reproductive health behaviors of high-risk reproductive age women. The project also highlights the feasibility of increasing preventive reproductive care services in a primary care setting when providers use a screening tool.
Recommended Citation
Estime-Joiner, Wienelmine, "Implementing a preventive reproductive screening and intervention program in a primary care clinic to improve women’s health during the preconception period" (2024). Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). 133.
https://louis.uah.edu/uah-dnp/133