An Evaluation of Three Techniques Improving Immunization Levels in Elementary Schools

Three techniques for improving immunization levels among school-age children were tested and then compared for most effective use of school nurses' time. Method A involved reviewing school immunization records, specifically inviting immunization-deficient children to a school-based clinic, with some follow-up to achieve good response. Method B involved sending out permission slips for a school-based clinic to all students without additional investment of nursing time. Method C involved a health education program encouraging parents to have their children immunized on their own. Using an average of 38 hours of school nurse time, Method A succeeded significantly better then Method B in immunizing more immunization-deficient children and raising immunization levels , while giving fewer unnecessary immunizations. Method C did not produce significant improvement of immunization levels.