bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Hearing Conservation Program for Wisconsin Youth Working in Agriculture
Authors: Knobloch Mary Jo , Broste Steven K.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Adolescents working in agricultural settings may be exposed to noise levels that result in hearing loss. The article describes the design, implementation, and results of a four‐year, hearing conservation program (HCP) conducted at school. Thirty‐four schools (753 students) were randomly assigned to either an intervention or control group. The intervention included multicomponent educational strategies and employed features of an industrial HCP. Final compliance surveys indicated 87.5% of intervention students reported using hearing protection devices (HPD) at least some of the time, compared to 45% of control students. The HCP components with the greatest reported influence were distribution of HPDs for use on the farm and yearly hearing tests. Eighty percent of intervention students reported intention to use HPDs in the future. It is feasible to conduct a hearing conservation program with junior high school and senior high school students, and it appears possible to persuade teen‐agers to protect themselves from exposure to loud noise while working on a farm.
Middle School Students and Bicycle Helmet Use: Knowledge, Attitudes, Beliefs, and Behaviors
Authors: Liller Karen D. , Morissette Brenda , Noland Virginia , McDermott Robert J.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Previous research has shown that bicycle helmet use among older children and adolescents continues to be low. This study determined middle school students' knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors related to bicycle helmet use. Six middle schools in Hillsborough County, Fla., served as the research settings. A pretested survey instrument was administered to students. Overall. 3,333 sixth and seventh graders responded. Results showed that most children owned a bicycle, 38.1% owned a helmet, but only 15.8% wore a helmet the last time they rode a bike. Many students (49.7%) did not know or did not believe there was a bicycle helmet law in Florida. Predictors of helmet use were intention to use a helmet the next time one rides a bike, having a helmet, siblings' use of helmets, and friends' use of helmets.
Using the Open Airways Curriculum to Improve Self‐Care for Third Grade Children with Asthma
Authors: Horner Sharon D.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: A 12‐week, pilot intervention study was conducted in five elementary schools with third grade children who have asthma to test instruments, feasibility of providing the Open Airways classes in less time, and to identify potential problems in study implementation. The sample consisted of 10 boys and five girls ranging in age from 8 ‐ 9.5 years. Asthma management knowledge improved significantly (t = −2.30, p = .019). Findings supported the reliability and readability of the instruments and the feasibility of briefer class sessions. The Open Airways curriculum can be modified to facilitate delivery to school‐based groups without interfering with academic time.
Rural Junior High School Students' Risk Factors For and Perceptions of Teen‐age Parenthood
Authors: Robinson K. Lynne , Price James H. , Thompson Cynthia L. , Schmalzried Hans D.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: A sample consisting of 689 junior high school rural adolescents was surveyed about their perceptions of being a teen parent and their current sexual behavior. A risk factor analysis also was conducted to determine factors that significantly predict whether adolescents had engaged in sexual intercourse. Results indicate that one in nine adolescents had engaged in sexual intercourse (11%). The risk factor analyses showed that smoking and efficacy expectations of not engaging in sexual intercourse were significant predictors for both genders. For the most part, adolescents responded positively on four constructs: 1) attitudes toward being a teen parent; 2) efficacy expectations of not engaging in sexual intercourse; 3) benefits of being a teen parent; and 4) and barriers to being a teen parent. However, when analyses were conducted for males and females separately, females scored higher on each factor. Overall, results indicate these teens recognized problems that may occur from being a teen parent.
Redesigning a School Health Workforce for a New Health Care Environment: Training School Nurses as Nurse Practitioners
Authors: Brindis Claire D. , Sanghvi Rupal , Melinkovich Paul , Kaplan David W. , Ahlstrand Karin R. , MPH Stephanie L. Phibbs
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Diminishing financial resources for school health dictate the most efficient possible deployment of the school health workforce. School nurses trained as nurse practitioners could help resolve the common problems of ready access to and appropriate use of primary care, early detection of potentially costly medical problems, and efficient use of school health staff. To determine how best to use existing resources to meet the increasingly varied and complex health care needs of children and adolescents, a pilot project was conducted in Denver from 1994 to 1996. With physician back‐up and health aide support, school nurses were trained as nurse practitioners to provide in‐school diagnostic and treatment services. Based on their evaluation study of this pilot project, the authors suggest ways to solve problems in role transition, including well‐balanced training; clear role definition and assignment of responsibilities; appropriate back‐up and mentoring support; and issues of sustaining long‐term programs
Children With Ectodermal Dysplasias
Authors: Maturen Virginia L.
Published: October 2009

I wish I had information about Michael̂s condition, ectodermal dysplasia, to give his teachers at the beginning of every school year. They don't seem to understand his condition and what can be done to prevent problems from developing in the classroom. He's missed school days unnecessarily. His classmates tease him continuously
School Health Nursing Services Progress Review: Report of 1996 National Meeting
Authors: Brainerd Elaine
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This is a report of the outcomes of an invitational meeting convened in 1996 by the Division of Adolescent and School Health at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (DASH/CDC) and the National Center for School Health Nursing, American Nurses Association. Participants reviewed progress made on seven critical needs identified in 1994 at the School Health Nursing Services: Exploring National Issues conference. Priority actions were updated, consensus was reached for specific strategies to move towards achievement of goals and organizations and agencies were suggested to assume leadership. Participants and current membership of the National Nursing Coalition for School Health are listed as well as examples of related activities occurring in the interim. Collaborative partnerships are encouraged to assist school nurses in meeting the school‐related health needs of all students.
Health Practices of Educators Participating in an Idaho Wellness Conference: One Year Follow‐up
Authors: Rankin Linda L. , Mathews Jerry G.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The Great Potato Health Conference (GPHC), which convenes annually in Idaho, is one of more than 25 statewide wellness conferences for K‐12 school personnel. This follow‐up study assessed the health practices of conference participants one year following the GPHC. A 25‐item health behavior instrument was administered to 68 school district personnel prior to attending the GPHC and again three months, six months, and one year following the conference. Data were analyzed using a repeated measures one‐way factorial analysis of variance to test for differences in the health practices of participants over time. Results indicated statistically significant main effects for both previous conference attendance and time of measurement. No statistically significant interaction effect occurred between previous conference attendance and time of measurement.
Evaluation of a Three‐Year Urban Elementary School Tobacco Prevention Program
Authors: Price James H. , Beach Patricia , Everett Sherry , Telljohann Susan K. , Lewis Laurentz
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The longitudinal study compared effects of varying amounts of tobacco instruction (one, two, and three years) on the knowledge, attitudes, and behavioral intentions of urban elementary students. A three‐year, fourth‐through‐sixth grade tobacco prevention curriculum was developed based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Guidelines for School Health Programs to Prevent Tobacco Use and Addiction. The curriculum comprised five, 45‐minute lessons per year. The same trained instructor taught the curriculum all three years. Six intervention schools were taught the curriculum, and two control schools were not. A 49‐item questionnaire was used to assess tobacco knowledge, attitudes, and behavioral intentions. The experimental group's posttest knowledge and attitude scores were significantly higher than the control group's posttest scores. No significant differences occurred in posttest behavioral intention scores between the control and intervention groups.
Peer Helping/Involvement: An Efficacious Way to Meet the Challenge of Reducing Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Use Among Youth
Authors: Black David R. , Tobler Nancy S. , Sciacca John P.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Peer‐led drug prevention programs for middle school youth are reviewed as to whether or not they are a vital resource in an overall effort to minimize the use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs (ATOD). The paper focuses on the following: a) results of a 120‐study meta‐analysis of school‐based drug prevention programs and positive program features; b) considerations for falsely concluding that peer programs are ineffective; c) features of two model or stellar programs that compared interactive (peer leadership) to teacher/researcher‐led (non‐interactive) programs that followed National Peer Helpers Association (NPHA) Programmatic Standards; and d) suggestions for designing and implementing high‐quality, peer‐led programs. The authors conclude that interactive peer interventions for middle school students are statistically superior to non‐interactive didactic, lecture programs led by teachers/researchers. Programs implemented according to NPHA Programmatic Standards may eliminate Type II (false negative) and III (“implementation failure” or ineffectively designed and implemented program) errors. Opportunities for prudent application of well‐designed peer programs appropriately implemented and evaluated must remain a salient priority.
Medication Administration in Schools: The Massachusetts Experience
Authors: Sheetz Anne H. , Blum Margaret S.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: In 1991, the School Health Unit of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health defined medication administration as a priority policy development area for school health. The decision was based on: a) the increased numbers of children requiring medications during the school day; b) a lack of consistent standards within Masssachusetts schools; c) the need to update an outdated statute concerning psychotropic medications; and d) the more than 50 weekly telephone calls from school health personnel regarding this subject. This article describes the Massachusetts experience of developing medication administration regulations for public and private schools and implementing the regulations throughout the commonwealth. The Massachusetts experience may provide guidance to other states, cities, and towns as they address this important child health issue.
Principles for Developing Interdisciplinary School‐based Primary Care Centers
Authors: Barnett Stephen , Niebuhr Virginia , Baldwin Constance
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT:A 50% increase has occurred in the number of school‐based primary care centers (SBPCCs) in the United States since 1993‐94. Public schools offer a well‐established and respected community‐based infrastructure within which health centers may feasibly be developed. SBPCCs have documented improved access to care for underserved children and some initial success in addressing the complex morbidities and associated behavioral risk factors of children and adolescents. This paper presents five working principles to help communities establish SBPCCs that link community health and social services with their educational system. The principles encompass community participation, early assessment of community needs, integration of health and human services with educational services through an interdisciplinary and interagency team approach, development of a business plan, and program evaluation. These principles reflect the experiences of 22 Texas communities which operate 76 SBPCCs. They should prove helpful to many other communities and states that propose to develop, finance, and evaluate school‐based, interdisciplinary health care and prevention services.
Heart Partners: A Strategy for Promoting Effective Diffusion of School Health Promotion Programs
Authors: Roberts‐Gray Cynthia , Solomon Teshia , Gottlieb Nell , Kelsey Ellen
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Heart Partners uses a straightforward, interpersonal approach to increase acceptance and use of innovations in school health promotion. In accord with the linkage model of innovation diffusion, developers of a new program or technology (ie, resource system) simply designate and train selected members to be recruiters and allies of individual advocates at the campus‐level (ie, user system). Linkage is supported by supplying advocates and allies with guidelines and materials that encourage ongoing, interactive, interpersonal partnerships to promote effective implementation of the new technology at the school. Empirical assessment of this simple strategy implemented by the Texas Affiliate of the American Heart Association showed a twofold to fourfold increase in actual use and reach of school health promotion packages, with an average reported volunteer time of less than three hours per month.
School‐Based Health Centers in the Context of Education Reform
Authors: Dryfoos Joy G.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The rapid proliferation of school‐based health centers is taking place at the same time that school systems are seeking to improve their educational practices. Many different school reform models are being promulgated with modest success. Absence of connections between school reorganization and the provision of human services may lead to failure. The emerging community school model integrates quality education with effective health, mental health, and social services in “one stop” school centers that become student, parent, and community hubs
School‐Based Health Centers and School Nurses: Cementing the Collaboration
Authors: Hacker Karen , Wessel Genie L.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: As school health personnel respond to the changing needs of children, new models are being developed and traditional models are being reexamined. The role of the school nurse is expanding at the same time as school‐based health centers are increasing in number. Partnerships between school‐based health centers and school nurses are critical for the success of school‐based health centers, and partnerships will enhance and expand roles for school nurses. This paper clarifies the role of each in three areas: collaboration, communication, and cooperation. In addition, obstacles to partnerships are examined. The goal of this collaboration is a shared vision for the continuum of school health services in which school nurse and school health center serve integral roles. Elements for successful collaboration between nurse and health center are reviewed, including clarifying roles, shared leadership and program ownership, cooperative training and continuing education, negotiating conflict, and most importantly, maintaining mutual support and respect.
Interdisciplinary Collaborative Training for School‐Based Health Professionals
Authors: Papa Patricia A. , Rector Cherie , Stone Carol
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Changes in the nation's health and education systems have mandated that disciplines work together in a coordinated and collaborative manner to meet the complex health and educational needs of children and adolescents. This need for interdisciplinary collaborative training becomes even more of an issue for professionals providing services in school‐based health centers. Although several foundation projects have focused on training health care professionals and other service disciplines, there are relatively few reports of interdisciplinary training of school health professionals. Two projects — the California State University Interprofessional Collaboration Training Project and the Catholic University of America School Nurse Practitioner Program — are reviewed and suggestions are presented for expanding interdisciplinary training of school‐based health professionals in academic institutions
Optimizing the Roles of School Mental Health Professionals
Authors: Flaherty Lois T. , Garrison Ellen G. , Waxman Robyn , Uris Patricia F. , Keys Susan G. , Siegel Marcia Glass‐ , Weist Mark D.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Each mental health discipline offers unique contributions to the development and operation of school‐based mental health programs. The collaboration of professionals from different disciplines with each other, as well as with health and educational staff, is essential for service delivery in school settings. Conversely, interprofessional conflicts and turf issues can impede the development of effective school‐based mental health programs. The authors, who represent counseling, nursing, psychiatry, psychology, and social work, discuss the roles and competencies of each profession in providing school‐based mental health services. Training requirements within each discipline that relate to school mental health are described. Barriers to effective interdisciplinary collaboration, and methods of overcoming them, are delineated
Family Involvement in Expanded School Mental Health
Authors: Bickham Nicole L. , Pizarro L. Josefina , Warner Beth S. , Rosenthal Bernice , Weist Mark D.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Expanded school mental health (ESMH) programs address the limitations of traditional mental health agencies in meeting the needs of youth by providing a full range of services in a familiar and nonstigmatizing setting. Because of the central role families play in the lives of children, their involvement in ESMH can enhance the effectiveness of treatments and ensure that services are responsive to the needs of the larger community. Increasing family involvement, however, is a complex and resource‐intensive endeavor, and requires consideration of the goals of the ESMH program and potential obstacles to meeting those goals. The challenges of involving family members in ESMH, guidelines for determining the program's goals with respect to family involvement, and strategies for achieving these goals are described. Underlying the strategies is the need to be flexible, creative, and respectful of the beliefs and concerns of the families served by the ESMH program.
Business and Faith: Key Community Partnerships for School‐Based Health Centers
Authors: Juszczak Linda , Moody Jacob K. , Vega‐Matos Carlos
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: School‐based health centers need to form partnerships with organizations in the community. These relationships are essential to the viability of the centers because they can provide support and resources. However, benefits should be accrued by all partners, not just the health centers. Although there are many communities for school‐based health centers to connect to, this article focuses on two integral ones — communities of business and faith. Key findings from a project formed to develop communication strategies and to generate support from the business community are reviewed. Recommendations for school‐based health centers in approaching the business community are provided. Similarities and differences between communities of faith and strategies to develop relationships with these communities are presented. School‐based health centers are encouraged to understand the characteristics and priorities of their partners in communities of business and faith, and to pursue strong relationships with both communities
Managed Care, School Health Programs, and Adolescent Health Services: Opportunities for Health Promotion
Authors: Santelli John , Vernon Mary , Lowry Richard , Osorio Jenny , DuShaw Martha , Lancaster Mary Sue , Pham Ngoc , Song Elisa , Ginn Elizabeth , Kolbe Lloyd J.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT:The rapid expansion of managed care creates opportunities and dilemmas for those involved in school health and adolescent health promotion. Managed care organizations (MCOs), public health agencies, and school and adolescent health providers share certain common goals and priorities including an emphasis on prevention, cost‐effectiveness, and quality of care — and a willingness to explore innovative approaches to health promotion and disease prevention. However, MCOs often face conflicting challenges, balancing the goals of cost containment and investment in prevention. In considering support for school health programs, MCOs will be interested in evidence about the effectiveness of services in improving health and/or reducing medical expenditures. Mechanisms for improving prevention efforts within MCOs include quality assurance systems to monitor the performance of health plans, practice guidelines from professional organizations, and the contracting process between payers and health care providers. Development of partnerships between MCOs and schools will be a challenge given competing priorities, variation in managed care arrangements, structural differences between MCOs and schools, and variability in services provided by school health programs
AIDS Risk Among Students Attending Seventh‐day Adventist Schools in North America
Authors: Hopkins Gary L. , Hopp Joyce W. , Marshak Helen P. Hopp , Neish Christine , Rhoads Gayle
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: In 1995, a survey was conducted among students attending 69 Seventh‐day Adventist (SDA) high schools within the United States and Canada. The survey assessed the extent that these students practiced sexual and drug‐use behaviors which place them at risk for contracting or transmitting the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). A total of 1,748 respondents enrolled in grades 9 through 12 completed questionnaires similar to the instrument used in the 1993 Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS). Data were collected and compared to results from the 1993 YRBS. Students who attended SDA parochial schools reported lower rates of sexual intercourse compared to YRBS school counterparts (16.3% vs. 53.1%) and lower rates of all substances measured. Furthermore, respondents were more likely to engage in substance use and sexual intercourse if they had at least one parent who used tobacco, alcohol, or marijuana, as reported by the students. (J Sch Health. 1998; 68(4): 141‐145)
Sexual Harassment Policies in Florida School Districts
Authors: Moore Michele Johnson , Rienzo Barbara A.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Until recently, little attention has focused on the sexual harassment that occurs in primary and secondary schools. Several school‐related lawsuits and study results heightened awareness of the issue. This study investigated the extent to which Florida's school districts complied with the Florida Department of Education's (FDOE) recommendation and guidelines for addressing sexual harassment in schools. District equity coordinators were surveyed regarding policy development, implementation, promotion, education, and effects. Policies were collected for analysis. Most districts responded to the strong encouragement of the FDOE and approved a sexual harassment policy incorporating many of the suggested components. However, policies included only basic information when compared with suggestions from the literature. Results suggest problems with sexual harassment will continue due to lack of efforts in promoting awareness of the policy and education about the issue, which scholars insist are necessary for effectiveness
A Replication Study of Reducing the Risk, a Theory‐Based Sexuality Curriculum for Adolescents
Authors: Hubbard Betty M. , Giese Mark L. , Rainey Jacquie
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Reducing the Risk is a theory‐based, sexuality education curriculum shown to influence the knowledge and behaviors of secondary students. This study determined whether the behavioral effects of the curriculum could be duplicated in a southern, rural state. In a quasiexperimental design, pretest and posttest inventories were administered to students in treatment and comparison groups to determine the influence of Reducing the Risk on sexual behaviors. Results of the 18‐month study indicated students receiving the curriculum significantly delayed initiating sexual intercourse. Sexually active students in the treatment group were significantly more likely to protect themselves from STD/HIV and pregnancy than sexually active students in the comparison group. In addition, students receiving Reducing the Risk showed a significant increase in parent‐child communication about sexual issues. These results reinforce previous research that found positive behavioral effects for students receiving the Reducing the Risk curriculum
Outcomes of a High School Program to Increase Fruit and Vegetable Consumption: Gimme 5 — A Fresh Nutrition Concept for Students
Authors: Nicklas Theresa A. , Johnson Carolyn C. , Myers Leann , Farris Rosanne P. , Cunningham Amy
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This paper describes an intervention to increase high school students' fruit and vegetable consumption. Twelve schools were randomized to intervention or control conditions. The cohort (2,213 students; 56% females, 84% Caucasian) were followed from 9th to 12th grades. Interventions comprised a media campaign, classroom workshops, school meal modification, and parental support. Usual daily servings of fruit/vegetables increased 14% in the intervention compared to the control group (p>0.001) the first three years. At follow‐up, consumption within the control group also increased, resulting in no significant difference between groups. Intervention group knowledge scores and awareness indicators were significantly higher than those of the control group (p<0.0001). Gimme 5 provided a first model to show that dietary habits of high school students can be influenced by positive media messages relative to that age group, increased exposure to a variety of tasty products, and minimal classroom activity
Development of an Intervention Map for a Parent Education Intervention to Prevent Violence Among Hispanic Middle School Students
Authors: Murray Nancy , Kelder Steve , Parcel Guy , Orpinas Pamela
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This paper describes development of Padres Trabajando por la Paz, a violence prevention intervention for Hispanic parents to increase parental monitoring. The intervention was developed using an innovative new program planning process: intervention mapping. Theory and empirical evidence broadly defined performance objectives and determinants of parental monitoring. These objectives were further refined through group and individual interviews with the target parent group. Learning objectives for the intervention guided the content of the intervention that used modeling as the primary method and role model stories as a strategy delivered through newsletters. Stage‐matching members of the target population for their readiness to implement the parental monitoring behaviors further refined the social cognitive message design strategies. Intervention mapping provides an explicit theory‐ and data‐driven guide for intervention development that maximizes intervention impact for a specific target population.
Establishing a Research Agenda for School Nursing
Authors: Bradley Beverly J.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: During 1996, representatives from two professional organizations — American School Health Association and National Association of School Nurses — met collaboratively to identify and rank order key questions regarding contemporary research needs in school nursing services. This article summarizes existing literature and proposes areas for research. Recommendations are offered for nurses, school health program administrators, educators of school nurses, professional organizations, and others who plan and provide health care for school‐aged youth.
Bienestar: A Diabetes Risk‐Factor Prevention Program
Authors: Trevino Robert P. , Pugh Jacqueline A. , Hernandez Arthur E. , Menchaca Velma D. , Ramirez Robert R. , Mendoza Monica
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The Bienester Health Program, a diabetes risk‐factor prevention pilot program, targeted fourth grade Mexican American children. The primary goals are to decrease the two established risk factors for diabetes — overweight and dietary fats. Since the health program is based on Social Cognitive Theory, on social systems structure, and on culturally relevant material, it considers the child's social systems on both its health program and process evaluation. Learning activities were developed for four social systems that potentially influence children's health behaviors (parent, classroom, school cafeteria, and after‐school care). Preliminary results show that the Bienestar Health Program significantly decreased dietary fat, increased fruit and vegetable servings, and increased diabetes health knowledge.
Sexual Coercion Content in 21 Sexuality Education Curricula
Authors: Beyer Christine E. , Ogletree Roberta J.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Sexual coercion, a topic of relevance to school health personnel, may be as common in high school populations as in university populations. Twenty‐one sexuality education curricula were examined for information on the topics of date rape, stranger rape, pressure, incest, sexual harassment, unwanted/inappropriate touch, and exploitation/victimization. Curricula scoring highest in total coverage also were the most comprehensive with six of the seven sexual coercion topics covered. Overall, pressure and exploitation/victimization received the greatest attention, while sexual harassment was not covered in any of the curricula. Common themes occurring within the coercion topic areas included guilt, communication/assertiveness skills, blame, drug use, premeditation, fear, sources of help. Results suggest sexuality education curricula have not responded to the increased concern regarding sexual harassment in schools. (J Sch Health. 1998;68(9):370–375)
Professional Preparation of Elementary Teachers in Ohio: Status of K‐6 Health Education
Authors: Ubbes Valerie A. , Cottrell Randall R. , Ausherman Judith A. , Black Jill M. , Wilson Patti , Gill Carol , Snider Jane
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Improving the health status of children and youth depends to an extent on the adequate preparation of elementary teachers to teach health education. This survey: 1) examined the status of health education preparation that preservice elementary education majors receive from Ohio colleges and universities (n = 50); 2) determined the type of health education courses that Ohio colleges and universities require for elementary education majors; and 3) assessed the extent to which Ohio colleges and universities incorporate health and pedagogy‐related content in their courses for elementary education majors. Results showed that 40 of the 50 institutions offered a health course. Twelve different textbooks were used in the courses. Coverage of course content ranged from much to none for 10 survey items ranging from the National Health Education Standards to the K‐6 Health Instruction Responsibilities and Competencies.
A Nationwide Survey of Financing Health‐Related Services for Special Education Students
Authors: Rodman Jack , Weill Kenny , Driscoll Margaret , Fenton Terry , Alpert Hillel , Salem‐Schatz Susanne , Palfrey Judith S.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The Individuals with Disability Education Act (IDEA) requires state educational systems to provide school‐based, health related services (RS). This survey determined the financing arrangements used by states for health‐related services for school‐aged children with disabilities. A survey was sent to directors of special education, Medicaid, and public health departments in each of the 50 states. Financial patterns for RS were sought at the state level for children ages 3–21 with disabilities for the 1993–1994 school year, the most recent year for which complete financial data were available. Univariate analyses probed the relationship between systems' variables and the extent of Medicaid usage by local education agencies. Respondents reported that schools tapped traditional health resources to supplement educational dollars in paying for related services in schools. Medicaid was by far the most common source with 29 states reporting established mechanisms for recouping Medicaid dollars and 10 states reporting phase‐in activities. Seventeen states reported that departments of public health played some role in administration, training, and demonstrations, but only six states provided specific dollars for related services through the department. Use of private insurance was reported sporadically with only one state indicating a specific state‐level program. Correlates of increased Medicaid usage were presence of interagency agreements (IAAs) (OR 11.1, p=0.002), having specific personnel for school‐based medical assistance (OR 17.7, p=0.001), and utilizing school nursing services as a Medicaid optional service (OR 4.2, p=0.048).
Assessment of an Itinerant Medical Evaluation Program for School Dysfunction
Authors: Sandier Adrian D.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This paper describes an itinerant medical evaluation (IME) project and reports on the outcome of 108 consecutive referrals made in the first year. Subjects were of ages 5 to 17 years. Most students had been evaluated by the schools but were not receiving special education or related services. IME led to clinical diagnosis of ADHD in 70% of the sample, and specific learning disabilities were diagnosed in 26%. Several other clinically significant and educationally relevant diagnoses were made. As a result of the IME, many students were placed in special education and/or began to receive related services. At three‐month follow‐up, classroom accommodations were being made for 97% of the students. Teachers reported they felt more capable of teaching challenging students as a result of the IME. Significant improvements occurred in hyperactivity, conduct problems, and inattention, and grades improved in 31% of the sample. Reasons for the project's success are discussed.
Using Puppetry in a Coordinated School Health Program
Authors: Synovitz Linda Baily
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Educators and clinicians are continually searching for innovative methodologies that promote positive health behaviors, that are age and developmentally appropriate, and that are fun. Puppetry meets these criteria. Puppetry is a creative learning methodology that stimulates learning through play. Various types of puppets are identified and a summary of the ways in which puppets may be used in a coordinated school health program to enhance positive health behaviors is presented. While many individuals attest to the value of using puppets, research should be conducted to assess effectiveness of puppetry on health knowledge, attitudes, skills, and behaviors.
Developing an Evaluation Plan for School Health Programs in Nebraska
Authors: Cramer Mary W. , Iverson Carol J.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This article describes a unique plan for comprehensive evaluation of school health programs. With property tax caps threatening Nebraska's school health programs, the Nebraska Dept. of Health and Human Services initiated an evaluation plan to answer the question, “What is the value of school health?” The plan used the “Targeting Outcomes of Program” (TOP) framework to measure impact indicators of a comprehensive school health program. To customize the plan for Nebraska schools, community input was sought from stakeholders identified from a small rural school district. Following a series of focus group meetings, the final evaluation plan was developed and implemented as a statewide evaluation of comprehensive school health services. The resulting plan addressed several deficiencies previously identified in the literature by including community input, attention to multiple roles, and measurable outcomes documenting effectiveness, or value.
Texas Public School Nurses' Assessment of Children's Oral Health Status
Authors: Peterson Jill , Niessen Linda , Lopez G.M. Nana
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Researchers investigated the amount and types of dental morbidity that Texas public school nurses observed in an average school week. Two thousand nurses were randomly selected and surveyed by mail with 54% responding. Respondents reported 3.5% of the student population sought the nurses' services for a dental problem. Twelve school nurses reported that, of all health problems they observed, more than 50% were dental‐related. Approximately 48% indicated oral health screenings occurred at least once every other year. Data suggest children are suffering dental problems that could possibly be detected and treated by oral health screenings, thus preventing more serious morbidity. As part of the Texas public school admissions protocol, like required immunizations, children suffering dental problems could be referred for preadmission oral examinations to identify early any dental problems, and thus improving the children's oral health and preventing school absenteeism.
Short‐Term Impact of Safer Choices: A Multicomponent, School‐Based HIV, Other STD, and Pregnancy Prevention Program
Authors: Coyle Karin , Basen‐Engquist Karen , Kirby Douglas , Parcel Guy , Banspach Stephen , Harrist Ronald , Baumler Elizabeth , Weil Marsha
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This study evaluated the effectiveness of the first year of Safer Choices, a theoretically based, multicomponent HIV, STD, and pregnancy prevention program for high school youth. The study featured a randomized trial involving 20 schools in California and Texas, with a cohort of 3,869 ninth‐grade students. Students who completed both the baseline and the first follow‐up survey approximately seven months later were included in the analysis (n = 3,677). Safer Choices enhanced 9 of 13 psychosocial variables including knowledge, self efficacy for condom use, normative beliefs and attitudes regarding condom use, perceived barriers to condom use, risk perceptions, and parent‐child communication. Safer Choices also reduced selected risk behaviors. Specifically, Safer Choices reduced the frequency of intercourse without a condom in the three months prior to the survey, increased use of condoms at last intercourse, and increased use of selected contraceptives at last intercourse.
Mothers' Perceptions of Factors Influencing Violence in Schools
Authors: Kandakai Tina L. , Price James H. , Telljohann Susan K. , Wilson Carter A.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This study investigated mothers' perceptions of factors contributing to school violence. Of 345 mothers, 225 (65%) from urban public schools and 120 (35%) from suburban public schools, significant differences in perceptions of school violence were found on the enabling factors subscale for school location. Urban school mothers were significantly more likely than suburban mothers to attribute violence problems at their child's school to the lack of dress codes, violent messages in rap music, and poor parent/teacher communication. Significant differences in perceptions of school violence were found on the reinforcing factor subscale for school location, income, family structure, and race. Mothers of low‐ and middle‐income, single parents, and African Americans were much more optimistic about the possibility that violence prevention programs for students, parents, and teachers would work well to stop or reduce school violence than were higher‐income, married, and White mothers. These mothers also were more likely to believe it was acceptable for their child to fight at school than were their counterparts.
Psychosocial Factors Associated with Dieting Behaviors Among Female Adolescents
Authors: Pesa Jacqueline
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This study determined whether female adolescents who were attempting weight loss (dieters) differ from those who were not (nondieters) with respect to a set of psychosocial factors. The sample consisted of 2,536 normal‐weight and underweight female adolescents who participated in the National Longitudinal Adolescent Health Survey. Psychosocial factors examined included depression (four measures), self‐esteem, trouble in school, school connectedness, family connectedness, sense of community (two measures), grades, autonomy, and protective factors. MANCOVA revealed significant differences between dieters and nondieters. Self‐esteem was the strongest contributing factor differentiating dieters and nondieters. These results have implications for health education and health promotion with regard to both primary and secondary prevention. Self‐esteem building should be incorporated within the parameters of a comprehensive school health program and certainly should be a component in any nutrition education program aimed at preventing unhealthy dieting behaviors. By understanding the factors associated with these behaviors, it may be easier to identify individuals attempting weight loss despite being of normal or low body weight.
Asthma Knowledge, Roles, Functions, and Educational Needs of School Nurses
Authors: Calabrese Barbara J. , Nanda Joy P. , Huss Karen , Winkelstein Marilyn , Quartey Ruth I. , Rand Cynthia S.
Published: October 2009

In October 1997, 790 school nurses in Maryland and the District of Columbia were surveyed to determine their attitudes, knowledge, and beliefs about asthma. Results for 550 (70%) nurses indicated school nurses possess a generally appropriate level of knowledge concerning asthma, and most asthma myths have been replaced with knowledge. However, school nurses also have varied responsibilities that affect their ability to provide health education and support services to children with asthma at school. Little time is available for a proactive role. Concerns about the criteria and follow‐up for delegating medication administration within the school setting were reported. A lack of communication existed with parents about the child's asthma. Open communication between school nurses and the family is recommended to establish a partnership and improve asthma management outcomes. In addition, school policies and procedures should be updated to meet the demands of children with asthma.
Voices from the Field — A Qualitative Analysis of Classroom, School, District, and State Health Education Policies and Programs
Authors: Pateman Beth , Grunbaum Jo Anne , Kann Laura
Published: October 2009

This study provides a qualitative analysis of responses from classroom‐, school‐, district‐, and state‐level educators and administrators to open‐ended questions about school health education. These questions were posed as part of the School Health Policies and Programs Study (SHPPS), conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 1994, and elicited a range of responses about the status of school health education programs and factors that facilitated and hindered the delivery of such programs. To improve school health education in the United States, respondents cited the need to increase the value and priority of health education in the school curriculum and advocated for 1) professional preparation in health education for persons teaching health‐related courses, 2) health education course curricula to address important and timely issues, 3) student testing in health education, 4) improved resources and support for health education, and 5) increased communication and collaboration within their schools and communities related to health education.
The Florida School Violence Policies and Programs Study
Authors: Weiler Robert M. , Dorman Steve M. , Pealer Lisa N.
Published: October 2009

The Florida School Violence Policies and Programs Study (FSVPPS) assessed characteristics of violence prevention and control policies and education programs in Florida's 67 public school districts. Data were collected using the Florida School Violence Policies and Programs Questionnaire (FSVPPQ). Instruments used in the national School Health Policies and Programs Study (SHPPS) served as the framework for item development. A questionnaire designed to solicit information about violence policies and education programs was mailed to all 67 school districts in Florida during spring 1996. Sixty‐seven key informants were selected by asking district office personnel to identify the person with primary responsibility for violence prevention activities in their district. Fifty‐five school districts returned completed questionnaires, yielding a usable response rate of 82%. Respondents included personnel of superintendent rank, district administrators and directors, instructional specialists, principals, and “Safe & Drug Free Schools” coordinators. Participating school districts were evenly distributed geographically across Florida. The FSVPPS data reported in this paper include administrative and programmatic information about violence prevention education.
Evaluation of Developmentally Appropriate Programs for Adolescent Tobacco Cessation
Authors: Coleman‐Wallace Debbie , Lee Jerry W. , Montgomery Susanne , Blix Glen , Wang Dongqing Terry
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Despite introduction of numerous smoking prevention programs in schools, tobacco use has not declined among adolescents. Schools face the dilemma of what to do with students who smoke and are not ready to quit. This study evaluated two programs based on the stages of change model. The educational program, the Tobacco Education Group (TEG), was designed for adolescents not yet thinking about quitting. The cessation program, the Tobacco Awareness Program (TAP), was intended for adolescents who want to quit. Evaluation was completed on 351 students at six public high schools. Compared to a control group of adolescent smokers not assigned to programs, both intervention groups significantly decreased tobacco use. Self‐reported use was validated biochemically. Self‐efficacy for quitting increased in both programs. Posttest use was predicted by posttest self‐efficacy, peer support, and parental support, after controlling for initial use and initial self‐efficacy.
Smokeless Tobacco Use in Adolescents: The Cardiovascular Health in Children (CHIC II) Study
Authors: Lewis Paul C. , Harrell Joanne S. , Deng Shibing , Bradley Chyrise
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Smokeless tobacco has seen a resurgence of popularity among adolescents despite its association with oral cancer and altered cardiovascular function. This study examined age, gender, ethnicity, self‐esteem, physical activity, parental smoking, and socioeconomic status as predictors of smokeless tobacco use among middle school children. Subjects included 1,211 youth (White (64%), Black (24%), Hispanic (6%), and Other (6%); age 12.2) participating in the Cardiovascular Health in Children and Youth (CHIC II) study. All data were collected by questionnaire. Factors related to ever using smokeless tobacco included older age (p<.001), being male (p<.001), lower self‐esteem (p<.001), and having parents who currently (p=.02) or formerly (p=.05) smoked. Hispanics reported a higher current usage rate than other ethnic groups (p<.001). White youth in the lowest socioeconomic status were most likely to be experimental users (p=.007), while those in the high socioeconomic status were more likely to be current users (p=.006). Physical activity was not associated with smokeless tobacco use.