Psychometric Evaluation of the School Nurses' Awareness and Perceptions Survey (SNAPS) for Youth At-Risk of Trafficking

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Estimates suggest approximately 244,000-360,000 school-aged children in the United States are at risk of being trafficked. The purpose of this study was to test the psychometric properties of the School Nurses' Awareness and Perceptions Survey (SNAPS).

METHODS

A multi-phase approach for reliability and validity using correlation, exploratory, and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) with samples of school nurses from Massachusetts (Phase I) and nationally (Phase II).

RESULTS

SNAPS is a 32-item 5-point Likert scale with a potential score range of 32-160. Cronbach's alpha was .94 with sub-scales ranging from 0.84-0.94. CFA revealed a three-factor scale with a cumulative variance of 70.79% (Chisquare 3.13, df 461, p < .001; RMSEA .10; GFI .80; CFI .78; TLI .76).

CONCLUSIONS

Strong psychometric properties were found for the new measure allowing assessment of school nurses' knowledge of youth trafficking.

See Me, See My Child: Glimpses into Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is on the rise, with one in 68 children diagnosed with ASD. Families of children with ASD speak of being othered-feeling like outsiders in social situations. Because of ASD prevalence, all nurses need to understand current research, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and how to offer effective support. Nurses within the faith community, especially parish/faith community nurses, can play a significant role in creating a welcoming and supportive environment for children with ASD and their families.