Participants should be aware of the following financial/non-financial relationships: . Melissa A. Owens, DNP, APRN-Rx, FNP-BC, NCSN: I do not have any relevant financial / non-financial relationships with any proprietary interests.
Abstract: Objective: Oral care is important in preventing dental disease as well as reducing the risk of various chronic diseases, improving life expectancy and quality of life. Dental care should not only be provided by dental professionals but by a variety of healthcare workers. The objective of the school-based health IPE model which includes nursing, dental hygiene, pharmacy, and psychiatry is to expanding healthcare students’ knowledge in pediatric practice and skills in collaborative practice.
Methods: The nurse practitioner school-based health clinic has been providing IPE since 2018. The students experience the value of interprofessional practice (IPP) while also serving middle school students who often have complex health needs including significant unresolved acute and chronic dental issues.
Results: Throughout the year IPP discussions include fluoride, caries, toothbrushing, flossing and teeth whitening with class presentations on dental disease, nutrition and oral health, and interactive lessons on brushing and flossing. Over the past 3 years the IPP team provided oral health education to over 2600 students. Oral screening by the dental hygiene team impacted 285 students with 125 (44%) noted to have an abnormal exam. Of those with an abnormal exam 66 (53%) needed an urgent referral to a dentist.
Conclusion: IPP which includes oral health professionals, is an important step in improving oral health knowledge for students in various health professions and prepares our future health care providers to respond to the needs of their communities. This also allows for a much-needed service to be provided where dental access is limited.
