Learning Objective #1: Describe sources of work satisfaction for school nurses

Learning Objective #2: Describe implications for future development efforts to enhance job satisfaction in school nursing

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Work satisfaction has been correlated with longevity and reduced stress. An understanding of current work satisfaction of school nurses may point to areas that could be enhanced and improved for practice in school settings. The purpose of this descriptive survey was to examine the impact of a professional development summer institute on the career development and perceived work satisfaction of school nurses in Arkansas. School nurses in Arkansas were surveyed at the beginning and end of the 2004-05 school year to assess their work satisfaction following participation in an annual professional development leadership institute. The survey instrument used was the Index of Work Satisfaction by (Stamps, 1997) adapted for use with school nurses by Foley, Lee, Wilson, Cureton, and Canham (2004). Results of the initial data round will be presented. Differences in work satisfaction based on educational level, length of time in school nursing, number of students served and type of student population will be examined. The correlation between work satisfaction and satisfaction with goals and action plans from the leadership institute will be reported. Results of the study will be compared to a recently published study of school nurses in California. Implications for future professional development of school nurses in Arkansas will be presented. References

Foley, M., Lee, J., Wilson, L., Cureton, V. Y., & Canham, D. (2004). A multi-factor analysis of job satisfaction among school nurses. Journal of School Nursing, 20(2): 94-106.

Stamps, P. L. (1997). Nurses and work satisfaction: an index for measurement (2nd Ed.). Chicago, IL: Health Administration Press.