Improving Skin Cancer Screening in Primary Care

Author

Jaclyn Barnhouse, Southern Illinois University EdwardsvilleFollow
Rebecca Baietto, Southern Illinois University EdwardsvilleFollow

Date of Award

Spring 5-7-2021

Document Type

DNP Project

Project Team Faculty Member

Dr. Terri Furfaro, DNP, APN, FNP-BC

Project Team Faculty Member

Dr. Bernadette Sobczak, DNP, APN, CPNP-PC, PMHS

Keywords

Melanoma, Skin cancer, Primary Care, Family Practice, Screening, Adults

Abstract

Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the United States, with melanoma having the highest rate of mortality of all forms of skin cancer (CDC, 2019). However, there is hesitancy among primary care providers to perform skin cancer screenings (Oliveria et al., 2011). Prevention and early detection of melanoma is key. Melanoma has been known to be highly curable when found early. This makes early detection even more important in order to prevent metastasis and potential mortality (Bruce et al, 2017). The use of targeted screening tools can potentially save lives when utilized in primary care. This project was carried out in a rural, Midwestern public health clinic. The implementation of the SAMScore questionnaire was completed for adult patients seen during office visits from August 24, 2020 through November 25, 2020. Providers involved in the project reviewed survey answers with patients to determine level of risk. Dermatology referrals were recommended to those found to be high-risk. All patients involved in this project were provided education on skin cancer and preventive measures. Of the 19 patients screened, four were found to be high-risk for melanoma with one patient being diagnosed with melanoma after referral to dermatology. This project provided not only an educational opportunity for patients, but it also brought forth a screening method that is quick, concise, and financially feasible. Although this project consisted of a small sample size, future replications can easily be implemented in a larger and more diverse primary care setting.

Recommended Citation

Barnhouse, Jaclyn and Baietto, Rebecca, "Improving Skin Cancer Screening in Primary Care" (2021). Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects. 160.
https://spark.siue.edu/dnpprojects/160

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