A-293 Usability of the simpli-COLLECT Vaginal Collection Kit for STI Testing: An Age Group Analysis

Abstract Background The rise of STIs is a significant public health concern, with millions of new cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea and trichomoniasis reported each year. Implementing STI home collection kits offers a discreet, convenient testing option, potentially leading to earlier detection and treatment. Here, we evaluated the usability of simpli-COLLECT Swab Collection IUO Kit (sC kit) in a simulated home environment for vaginal STI testing. Methods The sC kit was evaluated through simulated use, knowledge-based questions, and subjective feedback in individual, in-person sessions. Usability data was evaluated from 61 female participants that were divided into 3 age groups: adolescents (age 14-17), adults (age 18-64), and older adults (65+). Each participant was evaluated on the ability to complete critical tasks (e.g., uncapping sample tube, opening swab packet, collecting swab sample) and essential tasks (e.g., opening kit, inspecting kit, placing mailing label on box). Results Across all participants, the mean score for the ease of use of the sC kit was 4.8 (out of 5) with an SD of 0.46 and the mean score for the ease of use of the instructional material was 4.7 (out of 5) with an SD of 0.49. Combined pass rate across age groups, ranged from 92.6% to 100.0% for critical tasks and 88.5% to 100.0% for essential tasks. The adolescent group had the widest range for critical and essential tasks, with ranges of 87.5% to 100.0% and 80.0% to 100.0%, respectively. The adult group had the narrowest range for critical and essential tasks, with ranges of 95.0% to 100.0% and 94.7% to 100.0%. Conclusion This study demonstrated that the participants found the sC kit easy to use with a score of 4.8. Similar feedback was obtained for instructional materials. Critical and essential tasks pass rate was = 88.5% for combined age groups. Additionally, adolescent group demonstrated higher critical and essential task range than the adult group. STI home collection kits are a vital tool in the fight against the rising tide of STIs and contributing to the global goal of STI prevention