Document Type

Report

Publication Date

Spring 2025

Date of Final Presentation

3-27-2025

Committee Chair

Rosanna Moreno, DNP, MBA, RN, CPPS, FACHE

Committee Member

Sarah Llewellyn, PhD, MN, RN

Coordinator/ Chair of DNP Program

April Howell, DNP, RN

Abstract/ Executive Summary

Problem Description: Head injuries from bicycle accidents are a leading cause of emergency visits among elementary-aged children, particularly in rural areas (Safe Kids Worldwide, 2017). Helmets significantly reduce traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) up to 88% (Field Neurosciences Institute, n.d.). However, low-income families, especially in rural areas, often lack access to helmets and safety education, resulting in lower helmet use and higher injury rates. These challenges are amplified in communities facing high traffic injury rates, limited access to safety resources, and economic constraints (Gilna et al., 2022; World Health Organization, 2023).

Setting: This project took place in Othello, WA (pop. 8,915), where 22% of residents live in poverty, and a majority identify as Hispanic or Latino (United States Census Bureau, 2022). Held at Othello Community Hospital, the event incorporated bilingual materials and engaged community stakeholders to provide accessible safety education and helmet fittings, supported through donations (U.S. Census Bureau, 2022).

Rationale: Guided by the Health Belief Model, the program addressed barriers to helmet use by emphasizing injury prevention benefits, promoting parent confidence, and facilitating behavior change (Karl et al., 2022). A Cochrane review supports the effectiveness of community-based education with free helmet distribution, making local partnerships essential for expanding reach (Owen et al., 2011).

Specific Aims: The goal of this project was to increase parental knowledge regarding helmet safety and TBIs in children, increase the rate of helmet use, and provide access to safety equipment in an underserved area.

Project Outcomes: Questionnaire results revealed significant improvements in parental knowledge and confidence. Parents’ understanding of head injury, confidence in checking helmet fit, and the likelihood of recommending helmet use all increased after the event. Baseline scores had notable gains in knowledge and safety intentions. Confidence in helmet use grew from a mean of 3.1 pre-education to 4.7 at a 30-day follow-up. All attendees accessed educational materials in their preferred language, and 27% of parents opted for continued follow-up.

Implementation and Evaluation Plan: The project distributed bilingual promotional materials and conducted pre- and post-surveys to assess learning and safety intentions. The session included information on TBI prevention, helmet fitting, and hands-on demonstrations. Upon completion, children received free fitted helmets. Parents provided feedback on the most effective teaching methods and suggested future safety topics.

Results: The event raised community awareness about TBI risks and encouraged helmet use. Post-event questionnaires and follow-ups indicated increased helmet usage and parent confidence in promoting helmet safety. Many parents expressed interest in further safety education, highlighting the project’s impact and potential for behavior change.

Interpretation: The project demonstrated how community-based education can drive positive behavioral shifts and increase awareness of TBI prevention. Positive participant feedback and requests for expanded safety education show that similar programs could be effective in other rural areas, emphasizing the need for sustained community partnerships.

Conclusions: This helmet safety initiative improved TBI awareness and helmet usage, offering a replicable model for injury prevention in rural settings. Continued collaboration with local organizations will be essential for scaling and sustaining this safety culture within the community.

Download

Included in

Nursing Commons

Share

COinS