INCREASING GONORRHEA AND CHLAMYDIA TESTING BY USING UNIVERSAL TRAUMA-INFORMED CARE AND OFFERING SELF-COLLECTED VAGINAL SWABS TO PATIENTS AT A NON-PROFIT INDEPENDENT REPRODUCTIVE HEALTHCARE CENTER

Abstract

Background & Significance: The sexually transmitted infection (STI) epidemic in the United States remains a public health concern, with over 2.4 million cases in 2023 (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2024). Increased screening can help prevent complications and enable treatment for the sexual partners of these asymptomatic infections (CDC, 2024). The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends that obstetrician-gynecology offices aim to provide universal trauma-informed care (TIC) to all patients (McNicholas et al., 2021). Purpose: Universal TIC practices were used to improve acceptance of gonorrhea and chlamydia (GC/CT) testing among at-risk individuals by adding a self-collected vaginal swab (SCVS) testing option alongside the standard gonorrhea and chlamydia tests offered at the center. Intervention: A PDSA model was used to implement a comprehensive approach that trained healthcare providers on GC/CT and SCVS. Universal TIC training was provided to both healthcare providers and staff. Results: Pretest scores ranged from 33.3% to 88%, with an average and median score of 66.67%. After completing the GC/CT education, posttest scores ranged from 77.78% to 100%, with an average of 90%. In 2024, 57.6% of high-risk patients underwent GC/CT testing, compared to 62.7% during the same period in 2025. 100% of those who completed a satisfaction survey stated that they would use SCVS again for GC/CT testing. Conclusion and Implications: A higher rate of GC/CT testing was achieved among individuals at high risk for STIs, along with high levels of patient satisfaction, confidence, and ease in performing the SCVS. Healthcare providers and staff expressed a strong desire to continue improving universal TIC practices at the center through education and related initiatives