The Entry-Into School Health History Intake: The Starting Point for Care Coordination.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Nursing
• School Health Management
• Public Health

Background:

• Students frequently have chronic health conditions requiring school nurse intervention.
• Common conditions include asthma, diabetes, seizure disorders, and severe allergies.
• Incomplete health histories from primary care providers pose a challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss principles for identifying student health conditions.
• To provide a sample intake form for collecting student health histories.
• To improve school nurse management of student health needs.

Main Methods:

• Review of principles for identifying student health conditions.
• Development and presentation of a sample school health intake form.
• Adaptable format for both paper and electronic data collection.

Main Results:

• A consistent method for initial and updated health history intake is recommended.
• A system to differentiate parent vs. healthcare provider reporting is crucial.
• A sample intake form is provided for practical application.

Conclusions:

• Standardized health history collection is essential for effective school nursing.
• Accurate and complete health information supports student well-being and safety.
• The proposed intake form aids in systematic data gathering.