Caring for Refugee Youth in the School Setting

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Pediatric Nursing
• Immigration Health

Background:

• Over 80,000 refugees resettle in the U.S. annually, facing significant health and social challenges.
• Refugee youth experience unique stressors including malnutrition, trauma, and acculturation difficulties.
• Limited access to healthcare and education exacerbates health disparities in this vulnerable population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of the refugee experience in the U.S.
• To examine the critical healthcare needs of refugee youth.
• To equip school nurses with resources for supporting refugee children and adolescents.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on refugee health and school nursing interventions.
• Analysis of common health issues and psychosocial challenges faced by refugee youth.
• Identification of best practices for school nurse support.

Main Results:

• Refugee youth present with complex health needs, including communicable diseases and trauma sequelae.
• Acculturation stress and pre-migration experiences significantly impact mental and physical well-being.
• School nurses play a vital role in health promotion and care coordination for refugee students.

Conclusions:

• School nurses are essential in addressing the multifaceted health needs of refugee youth.
• Targeted interventions and resources are crucial for successful integration and improved health outcomes.
• Enhanced school-based healthcare services can mitigate the long-term health consequences for refugee children.