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089 <br /> -------. <br /> Students kept a- daily log of their activities with plans and, <br /> outcomes noted. Logs were reviewed by nurses weekly to monitor <br /> progress and obtain results. <br /> Evaluation of this approach was obtained objectively by comparing <br /> compliance rates from 1981 and 1982. A subjective evaluation was also <br /> obtained through written reports from nurses and students. <br /> Results <br /> Table I shows that seven out of eight schools with a student/ <br /> nurse team increased compliance rates in 1982. Numbers of children <br /> referred for dental problems both years were similar. <br /> Table I <br /> Comparison of Compliance Rates* for Screening Follow-up in <br /> Orange County Schools, 1981 and 1982. <br /> School 1981 1982 <br /> A 28% 92% <br /> 39% 72% <br /> C 39% 90% <br /> D 52% 100% <br /> 55% 80% <br /> F . 65% 52% <br /> 67% 75% <br /> 61%" 64% <br /> Average for all Schools 51% 78% <br /> * Compliance rate <br /> # of children referred who, obtained care <br /> = <br /> of children referred <br /> Subjective evaluation revealed that both students and' nurses <br /> agreed that the higher compliance rates in 1982 were due to student <br /> involvement in follow-up. Students reported that they enjoyed working <br /> in the community and as a result felt more confident about their <br /> communication and problem-solving skills. Nurses felt the- experience <br /> - was beneficial because students conducted a more timely and intensive <br /> follow-up on referrals resulting in more children obtaining care. <br /> The team approach was well-liked by both groups. They unanimously <br /> recommended the program be continued as a joint effort. <br /> Conclusion <br /> Involvement of dental hygiene students in the follow-up component <br /> of the screening/referral program in Orange County, N.C. dramatically - <br /> increased the number of children obtaining needed dental care. A <br /> thorough and successful follow-up is essential to the usefulness of <br /> any screening program. The interdisciplinary approach described is a <br /> model for other school health programs with similar resources. <br />