Background: In California, one in seven school-aged children has at least one chronic condition, highlighting the critical role of school nurses (SNs) in managing health needs. However, many SNs are unaware and lack a formalized case management (CM) process.
Purpose: This pilot project aimed to implement and evaluate a School Nurse-Led Case Management (SNLCM) process to enhance documentation, streamline workflows, and improve student health outcomes.
Methods: This evidence-based practice (EBP) project employed both quantitative and qualitative assessments over 11 SNs across 22 schools in a Fresno County school district.
Results: Significant improvements in SNLCM efficiency (p < 0.001) were observed, alongside near-significant enhancements in EBP implementation (p = 0.07). 54 cases were managed in 72 working days, achieving 87% completion rate. Students showed improvements in health (72%), quality of life (61%), and psychosocial outcomes (57%), with many reporting increased confidence in managing their health conditions and feeling more positive about school.
Conclusion: The SNLCM implementation successfully highlighted school nurses' contributions and improved student outcomes. The project provided compelling evidence supporting the need for additional SN positions and demonstrated the effectiveness of a structured CM approach.
Implications: Recommendations include project scale-up, multi-level stakeholder engagement, comprehensive SNLCM training implementation, and ensuring adequate resources through enhanced staffing support and technology integration.