Publication Date

2025

Document Type

Article

First Advisor

Rosso, Beth

Second Advisor

Dr. Kate Coulter

Degree Name

DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice)

Department

School of Nursing

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Colonoscopies are a highly effective method of colorectal cancer screening, yet their value is hindered by frequent last-minute cancellations and patient no-shows. The absence of a consistent, evidence-based pre-procedural education tool to address patient-level barriers remains a critical gap in healthcare delivery.

Local Problem: At a hospital-based medical practice in Kane County, Illinois, 7% of colonoscopy cancellations occur last minute, primarily due to preventable factors.

Methods: This quality improvement project compared last-minute cancellation and no-show rates between a control group receiving standard care and an intervention group provided with enhanced education and regularly scheduled follow-up contact through patient navigation.

Interventions: The New Hampshire Colorectal Cancer Screening Program (NHCRCSP) patient navigation protocol was implemented with 64 patients scheduled for screening colonoscopies over a 10-week period.

Results: Participants who received patient navigation were 1.154 times more likely to complete their colonoscopy, and the no-show rate decreased from 6.3% to 0%.

Conclusions: Implementation of the NHCRCSP patient navigation protocol over a 10-week period reduced colonoscopy cancellations and eliminated no-shows, supporting its integration as a standard component of screening programs to enhance clinical and operational outcomes.

Keywords: colorectal cancer, patient navigation, screening, prevention, cancellations

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