Public health nursing in children's protective services

This article describes the development and integration of a Los Angeles Cou nty, Department of Health Services, Public Health Nursing (PHN) program wit hin the local Children's Protective Services (CPS) agency to assist the Chi ldren's Social Workers (CSWs) with their legally mandated health case manag ement services. It summarizes the unique health needs of children who enter protective services, and explains why CPS agencies, often overwhelmed by a n increasing number of cases and diminishing resources, have had difficulty providing necessary health care monitoring and oversight. Program evaluati on data derailing PHN services during the first 2 years of program implemen tation gives valuable insight into their evolving role function within this new practice arena. Issues regarding the integration of disciplines, and t he contribution of the PHNs to the CPS agency are discussed.