Students', parents', and teachers' perceptions of health needs of school-age children: Implications for nurse practitioners

School-based programs have been perceived as key structures in the delivery of health care to our nation's children, particularly those from underserv ed populations. This exploratory, descriptive study examined students', par ents'. and teachers' perceptions of primary health care needs of school-age children. Focus groups and surveys were used to collect data in an element ary school located in a low-income community in the Southeast. Results reve aled health problems ranging from minor symptoms to psychosocial/environmen tal difficulties and the perceived need for a school-based health professio nal. Implications for nurse practitioners with advanced practice expertise are delineated.