A Pap test does not screen for everything: Nurse practitioner knowledge of ovarian cancer

    Authors

    V. W. Loerzel; D. Hunt;E. Rash

    Comments

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    Abbreviated Journal Title

    J. Am. Assoc. Nurs. Pract.

    Keywords

    Oncology; nurse practitioners; prevention; screening; women's health; survey research; UNITED-STATES; AWARENESS; Health Care Sciences & Services; Nursing

    Abstract

    PurposeNurse practitioners (NPs) are in a prime position to educate women about initial signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer (OC) and perform appropriate screening tests. However, little is known about NPs knowledge regarding OC. This article's purpose is to present the outcomes of a focused OC awareness program for NP students. Data sourcesNP students (N = 104) participated in this longitudinal one group pre-post study. Knowledge was calculated based on the number of correct answers for a total knowledge score and subscales related to OC incidence, risk, screening, symptoms, and treatment. An item related to the effectiveness of the Pap test to screen for OC was evaluated separately. ConclusionKnowledge deficits continue to exist related to OC, emphasizing the need for NPs to be aware of risk factors, symptoms, and early detection options for women with average risk. Many NP students erroneously believed a Pap test was an effective screening tool for OC. Implications for practiceMany NPs are inadequately prepared to assess risk, detect early symptoms, and perform screening tests for OC. Continuing education and reinforcement about OC is essential if NPs are to provide appropriate education to clients and detect this deadly disease as early as possible.

    Journal Title

    Journal of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners

    Volume

    27

    Issue/Number

    3

    Publication Date

    1-1-2015

    Document Type

    Article

    Language

    English Estonian

    First Page

    124

    Last Page

    130

    WOS Identifier

    WOS:000350812700002

    ISSN

    2327-6886

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