Comprehensive risk assessment for adolescents in school-based health centers

Providing comprehensive clinical services in school-based health centers affords the advanced practice nurse the opportunities for professional growth and fulfillment. Nurse practitioners are the primary clinician in the majority of SBHCs [1]. A substantial body of knowledge exists supporting the needs of adolescents, as well as methods by which nurse practitioners may assess, document, and intervene in order to improve health outcomes in this age group. To help move the field of school-based health care from innovation to mainstream, nurse practitioners need to continue to be part of the development of conceptual frameworks, appropriate methods, and evaluation of the process and outcomes. Educational achievement, access to care and reimbursement, and reduction of adolescent morbidity are indicators that have great significance in policy development. The extent to which nurse practitioners in SBHCs can provide evidence of making a difference will determine the success of this important health care venue for adolescents and demonstrate their own professional excellence.