School Health Practices for Children with Complex Medical Needs

Abstract

Concern is growing about the adequacy and safety of health services provided for medically complex children in public schools. A national survey of state health and education agencies was conducted to learn if guidelines existed governing the practice of eight selected nursing procedures in schools. Thirteen states (26%) had no written guidelines, 13 states (26%) had guidelines only for medication administration, and only six states (12%) had guidelines for the eight selected nursing procedures.