Nursing a child’s smile: a survey of student paediatric nurses’ perceptions of their oral health education and their opinions of oral health promotion and assessment.

Abstract Aim The aim of this study was to provide a broad description of student paediatric nurses’ experiences and opinions of oral health education, promotion and assessment. Method A quantitative descriptive approach was used through a self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire explored educational experience, opinions of education, basic knowledge, confidence in performing oral health activities and support of nurse led oral health promotion and assessment. A population of 231 student paediatric nurses studying at the University of Nottingham were invited to participate. Results A cross-section of 148 (63.5%) students were surveyed from all 4 years from the diploma (n=66, 44.6%), degree (n=31, 20.9%) and Masters of Nursing Science (MNursSci) (n=48, 34.2%) courses. 72.6% of students reported receiving oral health education. Reports from MNursSci students suggested incremental education was received through lectures and placement, in comparison the diploma/degree students experienced the majority of their oral health education at beginning of their course through lectures. Knowledge scores were low regardless of course or academic year. Confidence levels were higher in the diploma/degree students than MNursSci students but support for nurse led oral health promotion and assessment was higher in MNursSci students than diploma/degree. Conclusion In order to develop confidence and support for oral health promotion and assessment, students require increased provision and encouragement from universities and placements. Students’ knowledge needs to be improved although it is difficult to ascertain which educational approach is superior, therefore further research is required. There is a need to better integrate oral health into education and practice through policy support and increased research into oral health promotion. Lastly the role of nursing within oral health promotion needs clarification to ensure long-term sustainability