Scott D. Winnail

Assessing Competencies of the Public Health Workforce in a Frontier State

The purpose of this study was to determine the level of perceived proficiency of a public health workforce based on the Public Health Practice Core Competencies. The Public Health Profile and Training Needs Assessment questionnaire was mailed out to public health employees representing mostly public health nursing, environmental health, mental health, and public health management/administration (n = 696). Nearly three-quarters (74%) of participants were female and 96% reported being white. Eighty one percent of participants were currently employed full-time. The majority of participants were trained at the bachelors level (54%). The response rate was 63.9%. Findings from this study show that all disciplines reported higher perceived proficiency in the Communication skills domain compared to the other seven skills domains. Perceived low skills domains included “financial planning and management skills” and “policy development/program planning skills” among public health nurses, mental health professionals, and environmental health specialists. Management/administration level staff reported their lowest perceived proficiency in Basic Public Health Science skills. Each group had different strengths and weaknesses and the necessary level of skill needed differs among discipline groups, thus future trainings on the Public Health Core Competencies should be discipline specific.

Working with Colleges and Universities to Enhance the Health of Students and Schools

University health educators have long promoted comprehensive school health programs. Faculty members in other disciplines can also provide support and assistance. Successful collaboration between colleges and universities and public schools requires understanding the expectations and needs of faculty members and administrators in each setting. This article presents important barriers and opportunities related to successful school health partnerships between public schools and higher education. Fourteen Prevention Research Centers participated in a project funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The purpose was to study innovative partnerships to identify practical methods for higher education to work with public schools to improve the health of young people. This article includes selected results of the project and related recommendations for partnership activities. Specific examples illustrate the importance of gaining the trust and support of gatekeepers. The intent of the authors is to provide guidance to others interested in establishing collaborative partnerships.

Why Don't Parents Participate in School Health Education?.

Abstract This study examined factors that inhibit parent involvement in school health education. Parents of middle school children were surveyed to determine what factors constituted barriers to their participation in school health education activities. Specifically, this study examined the synergistic effects of multiple factors on parent involvement. Results illustrate that parents are likely to have low levels of participation in school health education if they (1) have a limited knowledge of opportunities to participate, (2) perceive that the school does not want them to participate, (3) perceive that the health education curriculum does not allow for parent involvement, and (4) perceive that their children would be embarrassed by their participation at school. When these factors combine, parents are far less likely to be involved at school. Implications of the study findings are discussed with particular focus on needed future research.

Diarrhea Management Training in Early Childhood Settings.

This study addresses the health of young children and how to safely and effectively care for children with diarrhea in the home and in early child care settings. A baseline survey showed the prevalence of oral rehydration solution (ORS) usage at last diarrhea bout to be low. An educational workshop was developed to train parents and child care professionals on how to properly manage young children with diarrhea and reduce the risk of diarrhea spread at home and in early childhood settings. Specific intervention activities are discussed and program activities, including specially designed materials for mixing homemade ORS are described. A comparison of pre- and postintervention data indicates substantial gains in knowledge among both urban and rural populations. Implications of research findings are discussed along with suggestions for future research.

Promoting Better Home Care of Young Children with Diarrhea through Workshops at Preschool and Daycare Settings

Abstract Diarrhea is a common and sometimes deadly illness of young children. Proper early care by parents can prevent serious complications. Recommended approaches to fluid replacement and feeding during diarrhea are not widely practiced, however. More education of parents is needed. The present study evaluated the feasibility and effectiveness of an educational intervention designed to reach parents through early childhood settings. Daycare and preschool facilities in Wilcox County, Ala., were receptive to in-service training for parents, teachers, and staff on how to care for young children with diarrhea. A knowledge pretest confirmed that recommendations for the early care of diarrhea were largely unfamiliar and not routinely practiced. Knowledge levels increased substantially after a practical workshop that can be easily replicated. Among participants who completed knowledge tests before and after the workshop, the median test score increased from 32 to 84%. Distribution of information packets by daycare and preschool staff may be an effective way to disseminate information on diarrhea care to parents unable to attend the workshop.