Environmental Health

Introduction

The health of students is deeply connected to the environments where they live, learn, and play. Environmental factors—such as air quality, water safety, chemical exposures, and climate-related health risks—can significantly impact student well-being, academic success, and overall health outcomes.

As frontline healthcare providers in schools, school nurses play a critical role in identifying and addressing environmental health concerns, advocating for safe learning environments, and educating students, staff, and families on best practices for reducing exposure to environmental hazards.

NASN is committed to empowering school nurses with the resources, knowledge, and advocacy tools needed to support environmental health initiatives in schools.

NASN Resources

Position Statements

Position Statement - Environmental Health

Journal Articles

Marquard S, Wade H, Oerther S. The Role of the School Nurse in Addressing Climate-Associated Illnesses: Vector-Borne Diseases. NASN School Nurse. 2024;0(0). doi:10.1177/1942602X241247143

Oerther S, Manspeaker S. The Role of the School Nurse in Addressing Climate-Associated Illnesses: Air Quality. NASN School Nurse. 2024;39(2):71-74. doi:10.1177/1942602X231200024

Oerther S, Berkley A, Reangsing C. The Role of the School Nurse in Addressing Climate-Associated Illnesses: Mental Well-being. NASN School Nurse. 2024;39(6):296-300. doi:10.1177/1942602X231214264

Combe L.G. Environmental Impacts on Student Health: A Call for School Nurse Action. NASN School Nurse. 2021;36(2):71-77. doi:10.1177/1942602X21991526

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