In:
The Journal of School Nursing, SAGE Publications, Vol. 24, No. 3 ( 2008-06), p. 158-163
Abstract:
Early detection and treatment of vision disorders in children are important to avoid lifelong visual impairment; however, preschool vision-screening rates are low. Traditional methods of screening lack the precision of objective tests and are difficult to administer in preschoolers. This study adopted a method using school nurses to conduct vision screening in preschoolers with a portable autorefractor. In addition, the effectiveness of the school nurse in conducting follow-up was evaluated. In a sample of 600 children, more than 98% completed the screening, and 7% were referred for follow-up evaluation. Seventeen percent of parents had plans to follow-up after receiving a brochure indicating that their child would benefit from a comprehensive eye exam. However, after a conversation with the school nurse, 86% had plans to schedule an evaluation with an eye care professional. Of the 15 students with known follow-up, 10 received glasses. The described method is effective in identifying young children with potential vision problems and facilitating their correction after contact made by the school nurse.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
1059-8405
,
1546-8364
DOI:
10.1177/1059840544556677
Language:
English
Publisher:
SAGE Publications
Publication Date:
2008
detail.hit.zdb_id:
2078960-9
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