ABSTRACT
Introduction: Psoriasis affects 2%-3% of the U.S. population and can have a profound impact on patient quality of life. Nurse practitioners (NPs) have a key role in managing psoriasis, and they need to stay current in this rapidly evolving area. Continuing education programs can increase the capabilities of NPs; however, these programs must target the areas of greatest educational need. This study was conducted to identify and quantify educational needs among NPs related to psoriasis.
Methods: Practice patterns of NPs were assessed using a case vignette survey, a validated method of assessing clinician practice patterns. The survey instrument presented two patient cases followed by questions presenting choices for severity assessment, treatment approach, and assessment of comorbidity risks.
Results: Several important educational gaps were identified by this study. NPs generally treat patients appropriately based on the perceived level of disease severity; however, approximately half of NPs underestimated disease severity in both patient cases, setting up the possibility of undertreatment. Additional gaps were identified in assessing risks of common psoriasis comorbidities.
Conclusions: The results of this study will allow for the design of optimally targeted continuing education programs, which in turn will enhance the capabilities of NPs who manage patients with psoriasis.