(61) Increasing flu vaccination rates in an era of vaccine hesitancy, a nursing led continuous improvement project.

Title: Increasing flu vaccination rates in an era of vaccine hesitancy, a nursing led continuous improvement project.

Abstract : Basis of inquiry:
Immunocompromised patients are at increased risk of severe and prolonged complications from an influenza infection. Serious infections in this population lead to increased hospital appointments, inpatient hospitalizations and treatment delays. Recently there has been an increase in vaccine hesitancy that further puts this population at risk. As hematology and oncology health care providers it is our responsibility to educate and encourage vaccination whenever medically appropriate. There is an urgent need to dispel myths and fears around vaccination and emphasize the benefits for the at-risk population.

Purpose/

Objective:
To increase influenza vaccination rates from 84% to 88% for patients with an oncologic diagnosis who have received treatment within the last 6 months at the Moseley Institute for Cancer and Blood Disorders

Methods:
The unique “Knowledge Base” system developed by Nemours was employed for accurate data tracking. The knowledge Base is a learning healthcare system used to analyze and visualize both patient level and population level discrete data for chronic disease cohorts. PDSA cycle interventions were evaluated on a weekly basis for effectiveness. Interventions included staff reminders, patient education flyers, messaging through patient portal, weekly report outs, discharge instruction reminders, and EMR flag for unvaccinated patients.

Findings or outcomes:
Nurses have the power to drive change on culture and practices. Through strategic nurse led interventions the Moseley Institute saw an increase in flu vaccination from 84% by December 2023 to 88.34% by December 2024. Each eligible patient was approached about vaccination, the 12% who remained unvaccinated were due to refusals of various reasons primarily including religious exemptions and not missed opportunities for vaccination.