Date
Summer 2025
Document Type
Scholarly Project
Department
College of Nursing
First Advisor
Laura Herbert
Abstract
Problem Statement: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a serious health concern in the United States (U.S). Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a vital intervention in the prevention of HIV, yet its uptake and adherence are suboptimal due to barriers in identifying individuals who are most at risk and would benefit most from this preventive measure.
Purpose: This evidence-based project aimed to evaluate whether implementing a PrEP readiness tool at a walk-in clinic would identify at-risk adults and adolescents and lead to an increase in referrals for PrEP initiation.
Method: A PrEP Questionnaire from the Department of Wisconsin Public Health was given to individuals seeking sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing and treatment at a walk-in clinic. This tool was used with permission. High risk individuals were referred for further information.
Inclusion Criteria: English or Spanish-speaking individuals at least 16 years old with HIV risk factors. Participants had to have the capacity to provide informed consent. The participants' health condition did not contraindicate the use of PrEP. Individuals with or without health insurance were eligible to participate.
Results: A chi-square test of independence showed a statistically significant association between PrEP questionnaire completion and referral acceptance, χ²= 6.78, p = 0.009. Patients who completed the questionnaire were significantly more likely to accept a PrEP referral, supporting the effectiveness of the screening tool in improving referral outcomes.
Implications for Practice: A PrEP screening tool helped identify individuals at risk for HIV. An increased uptake of PrEP can help end the epidemic of new HIV infections. Preventing new HIV infections through PrEP can lead to significant cost savings in healthcare.
Recommended Citation
Caldwell, Keionda Crumblin, "A Tailored Approach to PrEP Screening for Awareness and Readiness" (2025). Doctor of Nursing Practice Scholarly Projects. 86.
https://scholarcommons.sc.edu/dnp_projects/86
Rights
© 2025, Keionda Crumblin Caldwell