Date of Graduation

Spring 2026

Document Type

Culminating Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Department

Nursing

Committee Chairperson

Cheryl Schlamb, DNP, CRNP

Committee Member

Jaquelyn Owens, DNP, CRNP, FNP-BC

Committee Member

Kendra McDow, MD, MPH

Abstract

The purpose of this Quality Improvement (QI) project was to address outdated scoliosis screening protocols and guidelines by identifying barriers and improving outcomes. Current protocols and guidelines are not current with evidence-based practices. School nurses are mandated to conduct scoliosis screening on 6th & 7th graders annually using Adam’s forward bend test and a second screener for failed screens. Although this guideline attempts to use a 2nd screener as another tool to reduce false positives, it does not address the barriers school nurses may have with these older guidelines and protocols. Scoliosis screening has fallen out of favor due to a lack of research on its effectiveness. However, school nurse scoliosis screening remains the best way to catch Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) during growth spurts. Working in an underserved population highlights Philadelphia's increased risk due to health disparities, with scoliosis being a progressive condition that can lead to poor outcomes if not caught early. The methods used were to provide school nurses with scoliosis screening training and compare scoliosis screening data before and after training.  In addition, school nurses were asked to complete a survey to assess demographics, barriers, and confidence after their training. The findings showed 28% strongly agreed, and 49% agreed that the training increased their confidence, 24% agreed, and 74% strongly agreed that scoliosis screening was necessary, and 52% use a Scoliometer. The findings revealed flawed documentation, resulting in inconclusive screening data.

Final Version Confirmation

1

Download

Share

COinS