Evaluation of a program to train nurses to screen for breast and cervical cancer among Native American women

Routine screening for breast and cervical cancers lowers mortality from these diseases, but the benefit has not permeated to Native American women, for whom the five-year survival rate is the lowest of any population group in the United States. To help address this problem, an educational/training program was designed to enhance the skills of nurses and other health service providers and develop clinic support systems to better recruit, screen, and follow clients for breast and cervical cancer screening services.

A total of 131 nurses participated in the training program at 33 different sites between 1995 and 2000. Prior to and following training, each participant was given a questionnaire to determine knowledge of breast and cervical cancer screening techniques and recommendations, cancer survival and risk factors, and situational scenarios.

The average score for the pretest was 54% correct. The posttest average was 89% correct. The percent correct increased 35% from pre- to posttest (p < 0.001).

The knowledge to implement a successful screening program can be acquired through the current curriculum.