Date Approved
4-21-2025
Graduate Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Nursing (D.N.P.)
Degree Program
College of Nursing
First Advisor
Heather Chappell, DNP, FNP-BC, RN
Second Advisor
Katherine Moran, DNP, RN, CDCES, FADCES, FNAP
Academic Year
2024/2025
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a significant health concern in the United States, ranking third in incidence and mortality among all cancers. Despite established screening guidelines, adherence often falls short in primary care settings. This quality improvement project aimed to enhance CRC screening rates in a Midwest primary care practice through implementation of a standardized screening protocol. The intervention was two-fold and consisted of the routine ordering of fecal immunochemical test (FIT) kits to eligible patients and the use of electronic health record (EHR)-based patient reminders. Screening completion rates were monitored over a four-month period and compared to pre-intervention rates from the 4-months prior. Results indicated a statistically significant (p=0.044) increase in screening adherence post-intervention with mean pre-intervention screening rates of 57.35% increasing to 59.55%. Provider feedback gathered through a post-intervention survey was used to assess their perception of the intervention and responses portrayed perceived value, but suboptimal participation. This initiative demonstrated the potential of combining non-invasive screening options with digital reminders to improve preventive care outcomes.
ScholarWorks Citation
Terranova, Sam, "Implementing a Standardized Colorectal Cancer Screening Protocol to Enhance Screening Rates in a Primary Care Setting" (2025). Doctoral Dissertations. 69.
https://scholarworks.gvsu.edu/dissertations/69
