Educational Needs of School Nurses Regarding the Evidence-Based Management of Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a rare blood disorder that can have life-threatening complications. This presents a challenge for school nurses who may have had limited experience managing complications in the school setting. This study assessed the experience, self-reported knowledge, confidence and ability of school nurses in managing SCD in the school-setting and identified continuing educational needs and preferences. This study used a qualitative, descriptive approach. A survey was previously administered to over 400 school nurses who worked in K-12 schools in Ohio. Those participants who reported experience with managing SCD were invited to participate in a focus group or semi-structured interview. Data were interpreted using thematic analysis strategy. Four overarching themes emerged from the data: (1) perceived lack of support and resources, (2) self-reported lack of knowledge about SCD, (3) importance of partnerships with parents, and (4) need for continuing education and networking with other school nurses. Easily accessible, educational interventions, along with peer networking, can be designed to improve school nurse knowledge and confidence levels in managing SCD. These types of on-demand interventions are important as many school nurses reported infrequent exposure to students with SCD.