Women's views of the cervical smear test: implications for nursing practice — women who have not had a smear test

Abstract

This is the first of two papers reporting the findings of a study on the views of women with regards to the cervical smear test. In this first paper the views of those who have not had a smear test are analysed. The implications of those views for nursing practice in primary health care are identified and explored. Conducted in 1989-1990, the ESRC-funded study was located in the north-east of England and drew respondents from two age groups living in working-class localities. Focusing upon the views of women who have not had a smear test, a number of conclusions were evident: (a) that the call, recall system did not invite all women in the screening target group for a smear test; (b) that beliefs and attitudes, rather than practical problems, were cited as major factors in non-attendance; and (c) that women hold strong views on aspects of service delivery they would like to see in place. Thus the organization and delivery of the service might be reviewed. However, the barriers posed by beliefs and attitudes must be further explored through community-based work encompassing all community-based health professionals.