Intersection of HPV and sexual assault

Abstract

Background: There is an opportunity for nurses to integrate HPV education and prevention strategies into the routine care for adolescent and young adult sexual assault patients. Study design: An exploratory, cross-sectional, electronic mail survey was conducted to explore forensic nurses' knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes about HPV, the HPV vaccine, and HPV preventative strategies, as well as identify facilitators and barriers that may influence nurses' level of support regarding incorporating HPV preventative strategies into their care. Eligibility criteria for inclusion were: nurse members of the International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN) and stakeholders in the care of sexual assault patients. Results: 541 nurses completed the survey; 98% (n= 508) were supportive of at least providing written educational information regarding HPV and the HPV vaccine during post sexual assault care, 86% (n= 446) were supportive of providing written information plus making changes to the written discharge instructions to incorporate HPV vaccination recommendations, and 53% (n= 273) were supportive of providing written information, making changes to the discharge instructions, and initiation of HPV vaccination at point of care. The strongest predictor of level of support was having positive perceived benefits of HPV and vaccination. A one standard deviation increase in perceived benefit was associated with a 50% increased odds of having the highest level of support (support for vaccination initiation) (OR=1.5, CI= 1.1-1.9). Conclusions: Forensic nurses provide care for many adolescents and young adults who are at risk for acquiring HPV and are within the age range for HPV vaccination. There is an opportunity to update current practice guidelines and recommendations. Nurses in this national sample demonstrated a high level of HPV knowledge, as well as positive attitudes and beliefs. The nurses were overwhelmingly supportive of integrating HPV prevention strategies into their care.