The role of the school nurse in child protection

Citation

Hackett A (2013) The role of the school nurse in child protection. Community Practitioner, 86 (12), pp. 26-29. http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/cp/cp/2013/00000086/00000012/art00009

Abstract
School nurses are the only health professionals with a remit specifically to address the health needs of school-aged children and young people in the UK. However, evidence within one Scottish city suggests that the health needs of vulnerable school-aged children are not always identified or met by the school nurse. Using a qualitative approach, a purposive sample of six school nurses was selected to explore their perceptions of their role in child protection and to identify training needs. Data collection comprised semi-structured interviews and the data were analysed thematically. The school nurses in this study perceived that there was confusion and lack of clarity in relation to their role and involvement in child protection. Report writing, child trafficking, and legal issues were identified as training needs.

Keywords
child protection; continuing professional education; school nurse; school-aged children; training needs

Journal
Community Practitioner: Volume 86, Issue 12