National Association of School Nurses (NASN) Supports Educational Program About Management of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in School

Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation Provides ADHD Educational Materials to More than 11,000 NASN Members Nationwide in Response to Survey

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NEW YORK, Sept. 16, 1997 -- In order to enhance the management of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a neurobehavioral disorder that afflicts three-to-five percent of school-aged children, the National Association of School Nurses (NASN) is supporting a new, nationwide educational effort to provide their members with important information about ADHD. The program, which emphasizes partnering with teachers, parents and other health care providers, was developed in response to a recent nationwide survey. Conducted by the NASN, this membership survey revealed that 97 percent of respondents rated ADHD second only to asthma as the health problem about which they have the most concerns and need additional information.

"School nurses play a critical role in facilitating a team approach to the diagnosis and management of ADHD in the school setting," said Beverly Farquhar, RN, BS, CSN, executive director of the NASN. "Until now, however, they have had little guidance in this area. The resources provided through this new program give school nurses the proper tools to fulfill this important role more effectively."

The centerpiece of the program is a kit that resembles a student's compositional notebook and contains information on ADHD, its treatment and various support organizations. The kit is being provided to more than 11,000 NASN members nationwide by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. The program serves to underscore Novartis's commitment to the responsible management of ADHD and its treatment.

"We strongly believe that working closely with NASN on a concerted, nationwide campaign of information and education will ultimately benefit the child diagnosed with ADHD," said Rama Seshamani, M.D., director of Medical Affairs at Novartis. "This program helps Novartis meet the responsibility to ensure the appropriate diagnosis and treatment of this disorder, including the appropriate use of any indicated drug therapy."

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is characterized by: an inability to focus on certain tasks; inappropriate, impulsive behavior; and, in some instances, hyperactivity.

"In addition to empowering nurses to manage ADHD more effectively in their schools, we hope that this educational program will further emphasize the important role of school nurses throughout the country," said Doris Luckenbill, BSN, MS, CRNP, president of NASN.

The mission of the National Association of School Nurses is to advance the practice of school nursing and provide leadership in the delivery of quality health programs to the school community.

Novartis is a world leader in Life Sciences, with its core business in Healthcare, Agribusiness and Nutrition. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, a Novartis group company, researches, develops, manufactures and markets leading innovative prescription drugs used to treat a number of diseases and conditions, including central nervous system disorders, organ transplantation, cardiovascular diseases, cancer and arthritis.

CONTACT: Beverly K. Farquhar, RN, of National Association of School Nurses, 207-883-2117; or Todd P. Forte of Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, 973-503-5589