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School nursing in the news
The Journal of School Health
|November 1, 1983
Summary
Media coverage of school nursing increased significantly between 1978 and 1980. Despite positive portrayals, school nursing funding issues and its public agenda status remain concerns.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Health Communication
- Media Studies
Background:
- School nursing is crucial for student health.
- Media representation influences public perception and policy.
- Understanding press coverage is vital for advocacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the image of school nursing in American newspapers in 1978 and 1980.
- To assess media visibility, message content, and changes in coverage.
- To identify public perception and funding challenges.
Main Methods:
- Content analysis of newspaper articles from 1978 and 1980.
- Quantitative measurement of article frequency, size, and focus.
- Qualitative assessment of themes, services, funding, and public response.
Main Results:
- Article publication increased from 1.43 to 6.30 per state.
- Articles primarily focused on school nursing programs and services (77%).
- Funding issues were reported in 30% of articles, with parents succeeding in averting cuts.
Conclusions:
- School nursing is positively portrayed but not a major public issue.
- Funding threats persist despite positive media attention.
- Advocacy is needed to elevate school nursing on the public agenda.