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Abstract
Background
Limited research has examined the role of school health personnel in the prevention and early identification of hearing impairment.
Purpose
This study assessed high school health teachers' perceptions and teaching practices regarding hearing loss conservation.
Methods
A 26-item survey based on selected components of the health belief model and self-efficacy was developed on hearing loss in students and their teaching practices regarding hearing loss conservation. A national random sample of 600 health teachers was obtained from the US Department of Education.
Results
A 3-wave mailing was used to achieve a 47% response rate (n = 281). One in 7 (15%) health teachers felt very confident in providing information regarding noise-induced hearing loss and 9% felt very confident in providing referral for students. Common hearing loss prevention topics taught were potential damaging effects of music/other sounds (30%), anatomy and physiology of hearing (16%), impact of hearing loss (15%), and sources of personal protection (15%).
Discussion
Results suggest that more training and information on hearing is needed and desired by health educators.
Translation to Health Education Practice
School health teachers need to assess threats to adolescent hearing loss and incorporate hearing loss conservation into the curriculum and serve as a resource person to others regarding this topic.