Implementation of Screening Guidelines to Improve Quality of Care in a Small, Ethnically Diverse Pediatric Primary Care Practice…Then What?

Abstract

Although best practice guidelines have been shown to be effective, the process of translation into everyday practice can be challenging. The purpose of this evidence-based project (EBP) was the implementation of standardized screening tools into annual well-child visits in a small, ethnically diverse pediatric primary care practice in southern California. Standardized screening is recognized as an important process in identifying conditions early to facilitate early intervention. The practice site identified obesity has a priority and consequently the Department of Health Care Services: Child Health and Disability Prevention (CHDP) Program Guidelines for Diet and Nutrition Screening for Children assessment form was implemented in children aged 5-18 years with a body mass index (BMI) of greater than 95%. Additionally, a lack of standardized screening for autism was identified as an additional practice need. The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers-Revised (MCHAT-R) was implemented at the 18-month well-child check. The results of this EBP project was the successful implementation of obesity and autism screening tools with an uptake of 77% and 60% respectively. Additionally, obese patients were offered student nurse practitioner led weight management education sessions, resulted in low uptake (24%).