Date of Award

2025

Document Type

Project

College/School

College of Nursing

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Project Mentor

Dr. Lisa Abel

Readers

Dr. Jila Mirlashari

Abstract

Introduction Pelvic Floor Dysfunction (PFD) is a prevalent yet under-addressed concern affecting individuals throughout the course of their lifetime, including within pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause. Health care providers are responsible for providing up to-date education and resources to best support their patients facing PFD. Introducing an effective assessment strategy can prompt discussions regarding pelvic floor health (PFH).

Methods We conducted a primary data analysis of pre- and post- assessment tool surveys submitted by voluntary participants of Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNM) in a PFD assessment module. Pre- and post- test surveys were performed using Likert-scale scoring statements from April 2025 to May 2025. Data was analyzed using a paired t-test to evaluate pre- to post- assessment tool changes in provider knowledge and confidence in assessing PFD.

Outcomes Across a series of 10 Likert-scale statements assessing provider knowledge and confidence, six Certified Nurse-Midwives participated. Results showed that the mean score increased from 39.67 to 43.83 out of 50 total possible points. Therefore, provider knowledge and confidence increased by 10.49%. The p-value of 0.367 is greater than a statistically significant score of P < 0.05.

Discussion Through data analysis of the paired t-test, there was no statistically significant difference between the pre and post surveys of CNMs after reviewing the assessment tool module. Despite a lack of statistical significance, the findings suggest that brief, targeted education can enhance provider knowledge and confidence in understanding how to assess and know when to create referrals for PFD amongst wellness/annual, prenatal, postpartum, and menopause visits. Incorporating routine discussion within patient visits may address current knowledge gaps and empower providers to better educate and support patients, thus potentially reducing the burden of PFD.

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