Defense Date

6-6-2023

Graduation Date

Summer 8-5-2023

Availability

One-year Embargo

Submission Type

dissertation

Degree Name

PhD

Department

Nursing

School

School of Nursing

Committee Chair

Alison Colbert

Committee Member

Kathleen Sekula

Committee Member

James Schreiber

Committee Member

Hannah Fraley

Keywords

child sexual abuse, CSA, child sexual exploitation, CSE, school nurse, forensic nurse, screening, school, school health

Abstract

Background: Child sexual abuse (CSA) in a preventable national public health problem that results in adverse health consequences. Research suggests many victims are currently attending school. Screening for early detection of health issues is integral to school nurse (SN) practice but there is little evidence that screening for CSA is occurring in schools despite recommendations that it should be. Lack of confidence and knowledge related to screening for suspected CSA contribute to a SN’s missed opportunity for early intervention.

Purpose: To describe SNs knowledge and self-efficacy associated with screening for and reporting CSA in school settings.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey using the Child Abuse Report Intention Scale Nurses’ Version (CARIS) was sent to SN members of the National Association of School Nurses.

Results: Among the 123 respondents, 43% have been concerned a youth was experiencing CSA but may have missed identifying it. Self-efficacy and professional responsibility are predictors of SN’s intention to screen χ2 (3, n = 123) = 34.28, p =

Implications: An educational partnership between forensic nurses and SNs is necessary to facilitate improving SNs knowledge about signs of abuse that are not overtly obvious. The development of a screening tool specific for use by SNs can empower their confidence to screen by providing a resource for them to use as a guide when they are uncertain about the evidence.

Language

English

Comments

CC BY-NC-ND

Additional Citations

Ackers, S. A, Colbert, A. M., Fraley, H. E., Schreiber, J. B., (2022). Exploring screening practices for child sexual abuse in school settings: An integrative review. The Journal of School Nursing, 1-18. 10.1177/10598405221112662

Download

Share

COinS