An Integrative Review of the Health Care Needs of Female Adolescents

Female adolescents have multifaceted health care needs. The needs of adolescent females include addressing sexual activity, substance and tobacco use, psychosocial issues, chronic diseases, and behavior. The purpose of this integrative review is to identify current needs of the female adolescent within a primary care setting. Although some of the issues identified are common to all adolescents, the female adolescent risk is compounded due to additional health risks related to sexual activity. These needs may be best met by an advanced practice nurse who is able to focus time specific to the health care of the adolescent female.