Evaluating a Multicomponent e-Cigarette Prevention Program in the Rural Northwest: Teacher and Parent/Guardian...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Adolescent Health
• Tobacco Control

Background:

• Youth e-cigarette use (vaping) is a growing public health concern.
• Effective prevention strategies are crucial to combat rising rates of adolescent vaping.
• Educating key stakeholders like teachers and parents is vital for intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of an e-cigarette prevention program on teachers and parents/guardians in a rural setting.
• To measure changes in knowledge and confidence regarding vape prevention strategies.
• To evaluate the program's effectiveness in preparing adults to intervene with youth e-cigarette use.

Main Methods:

• A pre- and post-survey design was used to evaluate the program's outcomes.
• Evidence-based training was delivered to teachers and parents/guardians.
• Surveys assessed knowledge and confidence across multiple vape-specific domains.

Main Results:

• Teachers showed a statistically significant increase in knowledge across all eight assessed domains.
• Parents/guardians demonstrated significant increases in knowledge and confidence across seven domains.
• Participants reported increased likelihood of discussing tobacco and vaping risks with youth.

Conclusions:

• Multicomponent e-cigarette education and prevention programs effectively enhance adult preparedness to address youth vaping.
• These programs improve adults' ability to intervene in youth e-cigarette use and initiation.
• School nurses can play a key role in educating youth, families, and staff to mitigate vaping impacts.