Evaluation of an Intervention Program to Increase Immunization Compliance Among School Children

Keywords

health education, health/wellness, immunizations, middle/junior/high school, elementary

Abstract

State immunization laws necessitate compliance for students enrolling in a public or private school system. In support of state laws, school nurses expend hours to achieve immunization compliance with school-age children. For the purpose of creating a more efficient system, researchers implemented an educational and incentive program in local elementary schools to increase tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) booster compliance rates. Students were instructed in regard to their immune systems, immunizations, and where to obtain immunizations. In addition, compliant students were entered into a drawing for an iPod Shuffle or a RipStick. In 2009, the compliance rate expanded from 4% to 57% during a 4-week intervention program. Notably, the Tdap immunization compliance rate in the previous year (2008) was 54%. Researchers concluded that the intervention did not improve compliance rates significantly.

Original Publication Citation

Luthy, K. E., Thorpe, A.*, Dymock, L. C.*, & Conley, S.*(2011). Evaluation of an intervention program to increase immunization compliance among school children. Journal of School Nursing, 27(4), 252-257.

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2010-12-20

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/7966

Publisher

The Journal of School Nursing

Language

English

College

Nursing

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

Link to Full Text

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