Lack of pediatric mental health clinical experiences among FNP students

Mental health disorders accounted for approximately 5% of outpatient child and adolescent visits between 2008 and 2011, and 34.8% of these children were seen by a primary care provider. As primary care providers, family nurse practitioners (FNP) are positioned to address mental health issues across the lifespan; however, they require appropriate training and experience. The study examined pediatric mental health assessment clinical experiences in a national survey of FNP students. A secondary analysis was performed on a data set of FNP students (N = 3940). Frequencies and chi-square analyses were performed to examine pediatric mental health assessment clinical experiences. Nearly 30% (n = 1118) of FNP students reported experiencing two or fewer pediatric mental health assessments during their clinical rotations. More than half (53%) of these students were required to set up their own preceptors and clinical sites. Despite the growing need for mental health care in the U.S, students reported lacking pediatric mental health assessment clinical opportunities. Moreover, students who set up their own clinical sites and preceptors were even less likely to assess pediatric patients' mental health. FNP educators and programs are encouraged to provide students with the support and opportunity for adequate pediatric practice, including mental health assessment. •Secondary analysis of data from a national sample of 3940 FNP students•1118 students reported having two or fewer pediatric mental health assessment experiences.•Adult mental health assessment experiences far exceeded those of the pediatric population.•Securing preceptors independently was associated with fewer pediatric mental health assessment experiences.