Angela Hill

Date Approved

2004

Degree Type

Open Access Senior Honors Thesis

Department or School

Nursing

First Advisor

Professor Patricia Nunn

Second Advisor

Dr. Sandra Nelson

Abstract

Lead poisoning is a common health problem among children of America. Lead can be found in paint, dust, soil, and pottery, to name a few items. Lead has been proven to be a neurotoxin and causes adverse central and peripheral effects. Those affected may experience altered cognition and behavior, and reduction in intelligence and attention span. Children are at an increased risk for lead poisoning and its effects because of age related behaviors of putting hands and objects in their mouth, the immature brain of a child is more susceptible to toxic effects, and children absorb 50% of lead consumed.

Detroit is a major area of concern. In 2002 the city of Detroit identified 8.9% of the 93,365 children under age six to have elevated blood lead levels (Michigan Department of Community Health, 2003). Based on this information I decided to teach two lessons on lead poisoning prevention to three kindergarten classes in a Detroit Public Elementary School, which resided in a high risk ZIP code identified by the Michigan Department of Community Health in 2000. Based on objectives the outcomes of the educational sessions were as planned. The children learned about lead poisoning, its sources, and prevention..

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