“School nursing, a specialized practice of nursing, protects and promotes student health, facilitates optimal development, and advances academic success. School nurses, grounded in ethical and evidence-based practice, are the leaders who bridge health care and education, provide care coordination, advocate for quality student-centered care, and collaborate to design systems that allow individuals and communities to develop their full potential.” (National Association of School Nurses [NASN], 2017).
The Definition of School Nursing/The National Association of School Nurses
The Duties and Responsibilities of the School Nurse:
Serves as coordinator of comprehensive health services
Delegates selected nursing tasks to other competent personnel and provides training and supervision of such
Coordinates and communicates health care information between students, staff, family and physician
Lead member of Medical Emergency Response Team responsible for recruiting volunteers, coodrdinatin/performing Code Janet Drills and coordinating CPR certification classes for team members
Develops Individualized Health Care Plans and Emergency Care Plans for students with acute or chronic health problems
Counsels students, parents and staff regarding health development and psycho-social concerns
Provides health screenings as designated by state regulations, i.e., vision, hearing, blood pressure, scoliosis, heights and weight
Participates in the identification, referral and health appraisal of students with the Child Study Team
Participates in identifying students needing 504 plans and participates in the development of a comprehensive plan
Submits data and reports to state agencies related to immunizations, TB testing and employee injuries
Maintains accurate records of all nursing care provided
Teaches health education and promotes wellness activities
Provides assessment and care of onsite injuries and illness