Evaluation of an environmental health education program: assessing changes in knowledge of health professionals.

Knowledge about environmental health is crucial for nurses so they can take into account both the living and occupational environments of clients during history taking and physical assessments. When focused on local environmental conditions and exposures, outreach educational programs on environmental health can result in a measurable increase of interest to learn and enhance the knowledge base of participants. Public health agencies and educational institutions should consider entering into partnerships to sponsor such professional development programs for nurses and other health professionals to promote the health of local populations.