Document Type

Dissertation

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Major

Nursing

Date of Defense

7-15-2025

Graduate Advisor

Dr.Jinnie Tkach

Co-Advisor

Dr.Michelle Barrier

Committee

Dr.Lauren Woll

Abstract

Abstract

Problem: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a viral infection associated with the development of certain cancers and is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States (U.S.) (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2023). The CDC (2021) asserts that more than 90% of cancers caused by HPV infections could be prevented through the HPV vaccination. The CDC recommends the HPV vaccine series for children ages 11 or 12 years; however, this organization further submits that the HPV series could be initiated as early as 9 years of age through 26 years of age (CDC, 2024). Despite CDC recommendations, in 2023, only 76.8% of teens aged 13-17 years received one dose of the HPV vaccine, and 62.6% were up to date with the vaccine series (CDC, 2024).

Methods: This quality improvement project aimed to determine if HPV education and recommendations by healthcare providers could increase vaccination rates among adolescents ages 9-17 years old. A mixed-methods design was used, combining retrospective chart review with parental surveys to evaluate HPV vaccination uptake and identify barriers to vaccination.

Results: After 12 weeks of implementation, there was no statistically significant difference in the increase in HPV vaccination rates. However, provider education and recommendation were associated with a clinically significant increase in vaccine acceptance.

Implications for Practice: This project demonstrated that provider recommendations on HPV vaccinations can increase vaccine acceptance rates among adolescent caregivers.

Download

Share

COinS