EFFECTIVE SCREENING WITH SELF-COLLECTED VAGINAL SWABS
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Salami, Nafissatou
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Abstract
Problem Urine specimens detect up to 10% fewer infections compared to vaginal specimens for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) screening. An annual data report from January 2022 to January 2023 from a reproductive health clinic in Baltimore revealed 92% use of urine specimen and 8% use of vaginal specimen for the screening of chlamydia (CT), gonorrhea (GC), and trichomonas (TV). Assessment of the workflow of the clinic revealed that urine specimen collection is the preferred method due to its convenience and insufficient supply of vaginal swabs. Purpose A Quality Improvement (QI) project was performed to improve the detection of CT, GC, and TV among sexually active women aged 14-50 years at a reproductive health clinic in Baltimore City by implementing and measuring adherence to self-collection of vaginal specimens for testing. Methods The following structural and workflow changes were implemented at the clinic: incorporation of self-collected vaginal swabs into the CT, GC, and TV testing workflow, supply order of vaginal swabs, display of self-collection diagrams in the clinic's exam rooms and bathrooms, and integration of self-collection training module into the Employee Training system. Self-collected vaginal specimens were collected for CT, GC, and TV testing instead of urine samples unless a patient declines to self-swab. Weekly chart audits and run charts were conducted to monitor practice adherence. Results Two hundred and two (n=202) eligible participants were screened for CT, GC, and TV. Hundred and thirty-four self-swab and 68 provided urine specimen indicating 66% practice adherence. Participants that declined self- swabbing reported personal preference with urine collection. Conclusion Implementation of self-collected vaginal swabs for STI screening is achievable through efforts from both staff and patients. Efforts are needed to address personal discomfort with self-swabbing and sustainability of the implementation. Keywords: STI screening, Self-collected Vaginal Swabs, CT, GC, TV testing
