| dc.description.abstract | Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection worldwide. The complications from HPV can be deadly and yet some of the most dangerous serotypes can be prevented with a vaccine. Unfortunately, HPV vaccine initiation and completion rates remain significantly below that of other adolescent vaccines in North Dakota as well as throughout the United States. Low HPV vaccine uptake may be due to a number of factors including lack of knowledge, misconceptions and myths, and healthcare barriers, such as weak or missed provider recommendation and lack of vaccine availability.
This practice improvement project assessed parents’ attitudes, knowledge, and intent to vaccinate in McKenzie County, North Dakota, where HPV vaccine rates are amongst the lowest in North Dakota. A validated survey was provided to parents before and after watching a short video on HPV vaccination. Additionally, providers at Anova Family Health Clinic in Watford City, North Dakota, were educated on parental survey results and given suggestions to improve intent to vaccinate.
The results of the project demonstrated some improvements in parental knowledge related to HPV infections; however, improvements in parental knowledge were not noted related to HPV vaccination, demonstrating gaps still exist. Parental attitudes towards the HPV vaccine did improve related to vaccine efficacy, but there was no increased intent to vaccinate among parents after the video education. The majority of parents also reported they do not have enough information about the vaccine to give it to their child, demonstrating a need for further parent education. As a result of the practice improvement project, providers reported understanding education needs amongst parents and the ability to identify additional barriers to HPV vaccination.
In conclusion, more research is needed to better understand parents’ attitudes, knowledge, and intent to vaccinate in McKenzie County, North Dakota. With additional research, healthcare professionals can change their practice to reflect these needs. Furthermore, outreach at other clinics in McKenzie County, North Dakota need to occur to target a more representative sample. Through improved knowledge of parental education needs and barriers to HPV vaccination, healthcare providers can help increase HPV vaccination uptake and improve health outcomes. | en_US |
