What is the first action a nurse should take to influence health policy development in a school?

Conducting height and weight screenings of students serves as a crucial foundational step in influencing health policy development within a school setting. By assessing the physical health and nutritional status of students, the nurse can gather essential data that highlights the need for potential interventions or policy changes. This data can be instrumental in identifying health trends, such as the prevalence of obesity or undernutrition among students, which can then be addressed through informed decision-making with school administrators, parents, and community stakeholders.

Screenings can also create a more urgent and tangible narrative around student health that can be communicated to the school board, parents, and teachers. This evidence-based information can lead to advocacy for health programs, policy reforms, and supportive measures that address dietary needs or physical education requirements within the school curriculum. Thus, starting with health screenings establishes a solid groundwork for any further initiatives or campaigns aimed at promoting and improving student health within the school environment.