Date of Award
Summer 2025
Document Type
DNP Executive Summary
Degree Name
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Department
Nursing
Faculty Chair
Dr. Jolie Wildinger, DNP, FNP-C, AGACNP-BC
Preceptor
Dr. Amir English, DNP
Abstract
Background: Vision is a crucial component of the learning process, with academic tasks being heavily dependent on visual acuity. Undetected or diagnosed visual impairments can significantly alter a student’s educational performance and overall development. Currently, in Alabama, kindergarten, second, and fourth grade students are the only students to receive routine vision screenings; therefore, regular screening for visual acuity and eye issues is critical for school health programs. Early screening, diagnosis, and correction of refractive errors prevent permanent visual impairment and support academic success by reducing educational barriers and delayed cognitive impairment.
Purpose: This project aims to improve the early detection of refractive errors in first and third graders by using more precise and approachable screening techniques. This quality improvement project was conducted in a Title I elementary school in the Southeastern United States where first- and third-graders do not receive routine vision screenings.
Project Design: School and parental consent were obtained for students to participate in vision screenings. A community-based non-profit organization focusing on improving vision screened 75 students over two days using a photo screening device. Students who did not meet the screening threshold established by the photo screener's pre-programmed settings were referred to an optometrist for further evaluation.
Results: Seventy-five students were screened, with 38.7% (29 students) referred for further evaluation.
Conclusion: The screening process identified a significant number of students who required further evaluation, emphasizing the effectiveness of the increased vision screening initiative.
Recommended Citation
Bolden, Tameka J., "Improving the Detection of Refractive Errors in First and Third Graders" (2025). Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects. 139.
https://digitalcommons.jsu.edu/etds_nursing/139
DNP Project Poster
DNP Project Slide Presentation Summer 2025.pptx (7960 kB)
DNP Project PowerPoint