Supporting the health and well-being of school-aged children through a school nurse programme: a realist evaluation

摘要: The school nurse’s role varies across countries. In Scotland, the Chief Nursing Officer recommended that should be refocused. refocused programme emphasises nine care pathways with a view to improve pupils’ health and wellbeing. Two sites were identified test this new programme. Our aim was assess how, for whom under what circumstances works in order provide learning support nurse training intended national roll-out. This study mixed methods study, using realist evaluation approach, conducted three phases. phase one, six managers from both took part individual interviews or focus groups complemented by documents develop initial theory. two, theory tested qualitative data 27 nurses, quantitative first 6 months of captured patterns referral. refined through analyses interpretation three. findings show enhanced opportunities early improved identification wellbeing needs. context worked mechanism streamlining referral relevant cases yielded positive outcomes extending nurses thus children’s engagement wider services. mental pathway most frequently used, referred complex more specialist services, but felt less equipped deal low moderate cases. facilitated risk successful at equipping actually deliver specific interventions as intended. Capacity building strategies seek enhance intervention delivery skills within parameters pathways. Realist provided useful framework terms identifying contextual mechanistic influences required strengthening prior implementation.