Essential Strategies for School Nurses to Move Upstream in Support of Healthy Students and a Healthy Planet

Abstract

Human health is dependent on the health of the planet. Overwhelming evidence indicates that environmental degradation and climate change is negatively affecting planetary health and is on a worsening trajectory. The health of our children, especially those who live in poverty, suffer from chronic disease, or are otherwise disadvantaged, will benefit most from successful efforts to change this trajectory or will suffer the most if we do nothing. School nurses, members of the largest and most trusted group of healthcare providers, have a professional and ethical obligation to address environmental degradation and the impact on our students and communities. Research suggests that knowledge about climate change and the associated health impacts are positively correlated to school nurses’ attitudes and behaviors. This article aims to raise school nurse awareness, understanding, and agency regarding the possible trajectories of environmental degradation, implications to the health and well-being of current and future generations of children, and evidence-based actions to positively influence the trajectory. The Framework for 21st Century School Nurse Practice™ advocates a practice model that is student centered and provides a mind-set for school nursing to approach the topic of planetary and environmental health.