The Evolution of Camp Nursing in Caring for Pediatric Mental, Emotional, and Social Health Needs.

Attending a summer camp program has been a traditional experience for children for over 125 years. While these summer programs employ many individuals to provide an enriching experience, the camp nurse serves a distinct purpose as the key health care professional onsite. The camp nurse role has evolved as pediatric health needs have become more complex. Historically, camp nurses provided health checks while addressing the typical bumps, bruises, and occasional serious injuries. Today, not only has pediatric medication usage grown, but increased mental health diagnoses have positioned camp nurses as one of the primary professionals coordinating campers' well-being inclusive of physical, mental, emotional, and social health (P-MESH). Pediatric nurses bring extensive knowledge to their positions from working with children across the spectrum of medical and P-MESH needs. This expertise allows the camp nurse to be involved with extensive documentation review and parent communication, staff training, and addressing campers' needs through prevention and intervention strategies onsite. This article highlights the evolved role of the camp nurse and provides strategies to support campers' P-MESH needs before, during, and after the camp experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]