Crystal Shannon1. 1. School of Nursing, College of Health and Human Services, Indiana University Northwest, Gary, IN.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: This article examines the role of community-based schools of nursing in the promotion of public health and research in poverty-stricken areas. DESIGN AND SAMPLE: This was a three-phase study (questionnaire and key-informants' interviews) that surveyed representatives of prelicensure associate and baccalaureate nursing schools (n=17), nursing-school key informants (n=6) and community leaders (n=10). MEASURES: A 13-question web-based survey and semi-structured interview of key informants elicited data on demographics, nursing program design, exposure of faculty and students to various research and health promotion methods, and beliefs about student involvement. RESULTS: Nursing schools participated minimally in community-based health promotion (CBHP) and community-based participatory research saw reduced need for student involvement in such activities, cited multiple barriers to active community collaboration, and reported restricted community partnerships. CBHP was recognized to be a valuable element of health care and student education, but is obstructed by many barriers. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that nursing schools are not taking full advantage of relationships with community leaders. Recommendations for action are given.
OBJECTIVE: This article examines the role of community-based schools of nursing in the promotion of public health and research in poverty-stricken areas. DESIGN AND SAMPLE: This was a three-phase study (questionnaire and key-informants' interviews) that surveyed representatives of prelicensure associate and baccalaureate nursing schools (n=17), nursing-school key informants (n=6) and community leaders (n=10). MEASURES: A 13-question web-based survey and semi-structured interview of key informants elicited data on demographics, nursing program design, exposure of faculty and students to various research and health promotion methods, and beliefs about student involvement. RESULTS: Nursing schools participated minimally in community-based health promotion (CBHP) and community-based participatory research saw reduced need for student involvement in such activities, cited multiple barriers to active community collaboration, and reported restricted community partnerships. CBHP was recognized to be a valuable element of health care and student education, but is obstructed by many barriers. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that nursing schools are not taking full advantage of relationships with community leaders. Recommendations for action are given.
Keywords:
CBHP; CBPR; community-based health; community-based schools of nursing; health promotion; nursing; nursing schools; participatory; public health