Program Evaluation of a Hospital-Based Distracted Driving Program for Teens.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

9-1-2023

Publication Title

Pediatric Nursing

Abstract

Background: Unintentional trauma with motor vehicle crashes (MVCs) is the number-one mechanism of fatal injury. In 2021, 9,066 drivers aged 15 to 20 years were involved in MVCs in Louisiana, with 113 resulting in fatalities. Purpose: The aim of this program evaluation project was to evaluate the effectiveness of the Sudden Impact program on high school sophomore's knowledge and potential behavior change. The Sudden Impact program employs an interdisciplinary approach. The program focuses on educating students on risk-taking behaviors that result in injury or death from an MVC. Methods: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention program evaluation framework was used to assess the effectiveness of the Sudden Impact program. Data collected from 33,075 students from 120 high schools in southeast and central Louisiana from 2014-2020 were analyzed. Findings: A pre-/post-test was used to measure knowledge and potential behavior change. Each individual item in the instrument measuring knowledge and behavior change had a statistical significance (p < 0.05) from pre-test score to post-test score. The Sudden Impact program was able to increase knowledge on distracted driving. Behavior change could not be determined. Implications: The Sudden Impact program can be replicated to assist with lowering MVC injuries and fatalities in teens through increased knowledge of risky driving. School nurses can align with strategic partners to promote better health outcomes for this vulnerable age group.

First Page

231

Volume

49

Issue

5

Publisher

Jannetti Publications, Inc.

ISBN

00979805

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