The World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that over 7 million adults acquired syphilis in 2020. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in five Americans are affected by sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In 1999 the CDC postulated that syphilis could be eradicated entirely. Since that time cases have steadily increased, both nationwide and locally. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and Healthy People 2030 recommend annual screenings for those at increased risk. Importantly, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) recognized that many individuals engaging in risky behaviors mistrust the healthcare system. Dorothea Orem’s Theory of Self-Care and Self-Care Deficits played a pivotal role in promoting this project. The theory acknowledges that individuals possess inherent abilities to engage in self-care but sometimes require guidance from healthcare professionals. The Iowa Model was incorporated into this project for the implementation phase. Both frameworks provided a solid foundation for aligning intervention activities with organizational goals and for evaluating whether the campaign truly shifted staff knowledge in meaningful, sustainable ways.
