Perceptions on the Implementation of a School Nursing Pilot Programme in the Canary Islands

Abstract

Background/Objectives: School nursing is a nursing practice focused on promoting child health within the school and community environment, integrating healthcare with the educational process. The aim was to explore the experiences of nurses and teachers regarding the implementation of a school nursing pilot programme in primary education in the Canary Islands (Spain). Methods: A phenomenological study was conducted during the 2023/2024 academic year. In-depth interviews were conducted between May and June 2024 until data saturation was achieved. The interviews were transcribed and analysed using descriptive and interpretative thematic analysis. Intentional and co-occurrence coding methods were employed, followed by triangulation using Atlas-Ti software (version 24). Ethical approval was obtained (code: 2023-216-1). Results: A total of 21 informants (7 nurses and 14 teachers) were interviewed. Nurses revealed eight subthemes grouped into two main themes: Role of School Nurses (workload, school nurses’ experiences, career opportunities, and the school nurse profile) and School Nursing Project (suggested improvements, identified weaknesses, time management, and improvement needs). Regarding teachers, six subthemes were identified, also grouped into two main themes: Role of School Nurses (approach to school nursing and the importance of the presence of school nurses) and School Nursing Project (expectations, improving children’s health, school health, and experiences from the pilot programme). Conclusions: The pilot programme has been well received, showing a positive impact on students’ health. While successfully integrating nurses into schools, improvements are needed in working conditions, resource allocation, and specialized training to enhance its effectiveness and sustainability. Strengthening inter-professional collaboration between healthcare and education sectors and involving teachers in planning health activities are essential. Expanding the coverage and ensuring a consistent presence of school nurses would further build trust, improve chronic health management, and promote healthy habits from an early age. This programme illustrates the potential of nurses to transform schools into spaces for comprehensive health promotion.