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Show Improving Primary Care Provider (PCP) Confidence in Vasomotor Symptoms (VMS) Management: A Quality Improvement Initiative Micaela Besser, BSN, NCMP, DNP Student; Tammy Dunklebarger, BSN, DNP Student; Camille Moreno, DO, NCMP; Lisa TaylorSwanson, PhD, LAc, NCCAOM . Key Take Away Providing targeted tools and accessible resources increases primary care providers’ confidence in managing vasomotor symptoms in midlife women. Background • VMS impacts ~80% of menopausal women, significantly reducing quality of life and increasing health risks • PCPs often lack confidence in managing menopausal symptoms due to limited training Purpose To develop and implement a clinical toolkit that may improve PCP confidence in managing VMS in midlife women. Methods • The toolkit was developed using the Johns Hopkins Evidence-Based Practice Model and guidelines from The Menopause Society (TMS) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), with expert review. • Implemented in two University-affiliated clinics: a family practice group and a nurse-midwifery group. • Feedback was collected every two weeks during the 8week implementation using the PDSA cycle to allow rapid improvements. • Evaluated with a pre-and post-survey for quantitative data and qualitative feedback. Results • Confidence in managing VMS significantly improved (p = 0.041), while confidence in identifying VMS showed no statistically significant change (p = 0.084). • Feasibility: 65% of participants found the toolkit easy to use during busy clinic days. • Usability: 41% did not use the toolkit; 35% used it "some of the time"; 24% used it "most" or "all of the time.” • Barriers to use: Lack of need (29%), forgetting the toolkit (24%), and difficulty accessing it (12%). • Satisfaction: 76% of participants reported continuing to use at least part of the toolkit in their practice. Conclusions • The intervention may have improved confidence in managing VMS, particularly among providers with lower baseline confidence. • Sustainability: Requires ongoing updates to reflect the latest research and clinical guidelines. Integration with electronic medical records and streamlined content could enhance long-term usability. • Future Projects: Expand to address other menopauserelated symptoms or include more diverse provider populations. @uofunursing @utnurseresearch |
