Teachers' perceptions regarding the role of the school nurse in Malta

Abstract

It is documented that school nursing is one of the oldest branches in nursing and it plays a major part in the health of school children. The perception of the role and its relation to health promotion is fundamental to the development of school nursing (Whitefield, 1995; Wainwright et al, 2000). The aim of this study was to reveal teacher's views regarding the role of the school nurse in Malta. It specifically focused on the school nurse's role in relation to health promotion of school children, participation of the school nurse on school decision-making boards and factors that might influence the school nurse in fulfilling his/her role. The research design chosen was a descriptive, non-experimental survey. Questionnaires were distributed to 24 qualified teachers employed in 2 primary state schools and collected over a two-week period. It was found that these teachers appeared to be knowledgeable about the school nurse's role and perceived it as important for the health of children and school staff. It was apparent that teachers expected advice and support regarding health issues from the school nurse. The teachers under study felt that the school nurse should be employed on full-time basis, in order to consider him/her as a member of the school staff. However, it appeared teachers were not very keen to accept the school nurse as participant on school decision-making boards. The teachers under study identified factors, which may influence the school nurse in fulfilling his/her role. These included education, resources, cooperation and role recognition. These findings were discussed in relation to the literature and some conclusions were reached. A set of appropriate recommendations was also formulated.