WHAT DO SCHOOL NURSES DO?
School Nurses do far more than hand out ice packs and check for head lice. Studies show that 1 in 5 students have a special health care need, such as asthma, serious allergies, or diabetes. Nurses provide the care and monitoring to help those children stay in school. One-third of all visits to school Nurses are tied to mental health issues, so Nurses play a critical role in connecting students to the help they need. Nurses also help to make sure children are up-to-date with immunizations, reducing the chance students will get sidelined by an easily preventable illness.
A student’s health is directly related to his or her ability to learn. Children with unmet health needs have a difficult time engaging in the educational process. The school nurse supports student success by providing health care through assessment, intervention, and follow-up for all children within the school setting. The school nurse addresses the physical, mental, emotional, and social health needs of students and supports their achievement in the learning process. (NASN)
Role of a School Nurse
Serves as a health advocate for your child
Serves as a link to medical resources
Assesses illnesses and injuries
Delivers first-aid treatment
Communicates with parents
Communicates with staff
Monitors immunizations for compliance with Maryland law
Administers medications
Performs health screenings and follow-up per Maryland law
Participates on school teams
Monitors communicable infections