Nursing Honors Research

This showcase highlights an Honors research project focused on cervical-vaginal self-collection for HPV testing and its acceptability among populations disproportionately impacted by cervical cancer. Conducted through the Nursing Honors Colloquium and Indiana University Indianapolis Honors College, this multi-semester project has centered on synthesizing peer-reviewed evidence to better understand beliefs, barriers, and opportunities related to equitable screening practices. In collaboration with faculty mentorship and three Honors nursing students since Fall 2024, I have led the analysis process, contributing to data synthesis, statistical modeling, and the development of a PRISMA flow diagram. The resulting manuscript is in preparation for publication, and our findings will be disseminated at an academic conference in Spring 2026, underscoring the project’s contribution to evidence-based practice and health equity in nursing.

Through this multi-semester systematic review, I developed research and leadership skills that pushed me far beyond what I’ve done in traditional coursework.

Database Searching:
I learned how to build intentional search strategies using Boolean operators (AND, OR) and phrase searching like “HPV self-collection” to narrow results. I adjusted keywords based on patterns I saw in abstracts, which helped me find more relevant and high-quality studies.

Screening and Attention to Detail:
I applied strict inclusion and exclusion criteria to hundreds of abstracts and full-text articles. This required consistency and organization, especially when tracking decisions and resolving differences within the team. It strengthened my precision and accountability.

Data Extraction and Identifying Patterns:
I pulled key demographic data, outcomes, and themes from each study and organized them into synthesis tables. I started recognizing patterns related to stigma, access barriers, and trust in healthcare, which deepened my understanding of how significant and persistent these disparities are.

Statistical Analysis and Leadership:
I contributed to statistical modeling and helped interpret trends in screening acceptability. As a student lead working with three other Honors nursing students, I helped coordinate tasks and maintain communication with our faculty mentor, which strengthened my leadership and collaboration skills.

This artifact shows the summary-level analysis conducted on survey responses related to HPV knowledge, cervical cancer screening, and willingness to use self-collection methods. While the manuscript and poster are still in preparation, this output demonstrates my ability to organize and clean large datasets, code variables accurately, and calculate descriptive statistics such as means, standard deviations, and frequencies. By reviewing these results, I was able to identify patterns in participant demographics, healthcare access, and attitudes toward screening. This artifact highlights the behind-the-scenes work of research — the systematic, detail-oriented, and analytical skills required to prepare data for synthesis, interpretation, and eventual presentation at an academic conference.

Through this systematic review, I enhanced my skills in evidence-based practice, research synthesis, and data analysis. Leading the review process, including statistical modeling and the development of a PRISMA flow diagram, provided insight into how beliefs, barriers, and access shape preventive care. The project highlighted disparities in cervical cancer screening and reinforced my commitment to health equity. This experience has shaped my perspective as a future nurse, emphasizing culturally sensitive, patient-centered care and the importance of improving access and outcomes for underserved populations.