The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #35825

Linda F.C. Bullock, RN, PhD, M. Kay Libbus, DrPh, RN, Suzanne M. Lewis, RN, BSN, and Debra A. Gayer, PhD, RN. University of Missouri, MU Sinclair SChool of Nursing, MU Sinclair School of Nursing, Columbia, MO 65211, 573-882-0234, lbullock@missouri.edu

We used an investigator designed 35-item survey instrument to assess the effects of continuing education programs on the self-perceived ability of school nurses to practice more effectively. Respondents were queried about the general content of 6 programs offered by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services in conjunction with the University of Missouri-Columbia Sinclair School of Nursing. Specific content areas were mental health concerns, suicide prevention, diabetes mellitus management, asthma management, and developing clinical skills as they pertained to school-aged children. Comparing a sample of school nurses who had attended the programs with a group who had not, we discovered a statistically significant difference with the participant group reporting higher self-perceived competence than the non-participant group in all content areas except mental health concerns. Results of the study suggest that school nurses who attend specific continuing education programs feel more competent in practice than nurses who do not attend. Enhancing confidence, knowledge base, and practice skills will improve the care that school nurses are able to provide to this vulnerable population.

Learning Objectives: Learners will

• Recognize and appreciate the body of knowledge and skills that school helath nurses must have to practice effectively
• Understand the importance of continuing education for school nurses.

Keywords: School-Based Health Care, School Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.