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Follow-up study of a school-based scalds prevention programme
Julie Moore1, Karen Morath, Niki Harré
1Department of Psychology, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand.
Health Education Research
|May 25, 2004
Summary
This school-based scalds prevention program effectively taught children about hazards and safe practices. One year later, children retained significant knowledge and parents adopted safer hot water habits.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Pediatric Safety
- Health Education
Background:
- Scalds are a significant cause of injury in children.
- Effective prevention programs are crucial for reducing scald incidents.
- School-based interventions offer a viable platform for health education.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term effectiveness of a school-based scalds prevention program.
- To assess children's knowledge retention of scalds hazards and safety practices.
- To understand the impact of the program on family hot water practices.
Main Methods:
- A school-based scalds prevention program was delivered by Public Health Nurses (PHNs) in New Zealand.
- The program included classroom sessions and homework targeting five safety practices.
- Follow-up evaluation assessed knowledge in 116 children (10-11 years) 1 year post-intervention and interviewed 18 parents.
Main Results:
- Children recalled a mean of 7.46/10 scalds hazards 1 year after the program, similar to immediate recall.
- 65-79% of children reported using provided safety items, with 29-55% still using them 1 year later.
- Parent interviews revealed adoption of suggested safe hot water practices, indicating program influence on family behavior.
Conclusions:
- The school-based scalds prevention program demonstrated sustained knowledge retention among children.
- The program successfully influenced parental adoption of safer hot water practices.
- Integrating the program into the school curriculum could enhance its reach and sustainability.