One potential problem that may hinder the effectiveness of a well designed community-based intervention is client attrition prior to completion of the program. This paper presents an analysis of client attrition for 22 program sites that have been operating the Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP) program for approximately two to four years. Within the 22 sites, there are 83 nurse home visitors and 2,316 clients. The evaluation question is: What are the characteristics of clients who completed the pregnancy or infancy phases of the NFP program versus clients who should have but did not complete the pregnancy or infancy phases? Two reasons for attrition that are potentially amenable to change have been analyzed: declined further participation and excessive missed appointments/unable to locate. Findings suggest that clients who have missed an excessive number of appointments or cannot be located during the pregnancy or infancy phases are more likely to be aged 18 years or less, unmarried, African-American, live alone or live with their husband or boyfriend. Similar analyses will be repeated as sites continue to grow.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to: 1. Construct phases of a program to examine attrition. 2. Develop reasons for program attrition that are amenable to change. 3. Identify characteristics that could be associated with program attrition.
Keywords: Public Health Nursing, Evaluation
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: National Center for Children, Families, and Communities
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employee