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School nurses' perceptions of and experiences with head lice
J H Price1, C N Burkhart, C G Burkhart
1Dept. of Health Promotion University of Toledo, OH 43606, USA.
The Journal of School Health
|June 4, 1999
Summary
Most school nurses support "no-nit" policies for head lice (pediculosis capitis) and believe over-the-counter treatments are effective. Nurses reported high confidence in managing head lice and their ability to educate students and families.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Pediatrics
- Nursing Education
Background:
- Head lice (pediculosis capitis) remain a common concern in school settings.
- School nurses play a crucial role in managing head lice infestations and preventing their spread.
- Understanding nurses' perspectives is vital for effective school-based head lice control programs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate school nurses' perceptions regarding head lice management.
- To assess school nurses' self-efficacy and outcome expectations in addressing head lice.
- To identify sources of information utilized by school nurses for head lice control.
Main Methods:
- A survey was distributed to 382 school nurses using a two-wave mailing approach.
- Data collected included perceptions of head lice, self-efficacy, personal experience, and information sources.
- Quantitative analysis was used to summarize the survey findings.
Main Results:
- A majority of nurses (60%) supported mandatory school exclusion for children with head lice nits.
- Most nurses (66%) perceived over-the-counter (OTC) treatments as highly effective against adult lice.
- High levels of self-efficacy (63%) and outcome expectations (66%) were reported by nurses regarding head lice control.
Conclusions:
- School nurses generally hold supportive views of traditional "no-nit" policies.
- Nurses express strong confidence in their ability to manage head lice and achieve positive outcomes.
- Professional journals and conferences are primary sources of information for school nurses on head lice management.