Date of Award

2024

Document Type

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Department

Nursing

Committee Chair

Monica Beck

Committee Member

Heather J. Jackson

Subject(s)

Breast--Cancer--Risk factors, Breast--Radiography, Risk assessment

Abstract

Breast cancer is the predominant type of cancer affecting females in the United States. Individualized population screening is widely recommended to detect cancer as quickly as possible. The use of an objective risk assessment tool is endorsed to achieve a more precise, personalized breast health plan. Women at high risk for breast cancer are eligible for close surveillance with more frequent clinical exams, breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs), and genetic counseling and testing. At the clinical site for this DNP project, Vanderbilt Breast Center (VBC), the Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool (BCRAT) was completed during each mammogram visit, yet the woman’s risk was not consistently communicated to referring providers and patients. The purpose of this DNP project was to implement an evidence-based high-risk referral protocol for women identified at increased risk for breast cancer during her mammogram encounter. The Health Belief Model provided the theoretical framework for this quality improvement project. A weekly query within the electronic health record identified any mammography patient with 20% or greater lifetime risk for breast cancer over 15 weeks. Referring providers were notified of risk status and option for referral to a high-risk breast clinic.

Available for download on Thursday, November 06, 2025

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