School nurses are way more than just a weigh station for sick children.
They’re specialized registered nurses (RNs) who have experience and education in providing health care to American students with considerations for not only their general health and safety, but also their academic success.
More than 25% of students manage chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes and epilepsy, while other students are managing conditions including mental health issues, food insecurity, pregnancy and substance abuse.
That means the modern school nurse is more than a caregiver. They’re also an advocate, educator and problem-solver.
School Nurse Responsibilities
School nurses do more than just hand out ice packs and bandages. They also:
• Assess the severity of illness or injury in students.
• Distribute medications provided by students’ parents and other health care professionals.
• Care for students with chronic conditions.
• Ensure students are up to date on vaccinations.
• Direct the provision of health services in the school.
• Screen students for vision, hearing and other issues.
• Prevent and control the spread of communicable diseases.
• Connect students and families to relevant health and community resources.
• Provide mental health support to students.
• Collect health data for local, state and national officials.
• Promote overall community health through health and wellness initiatives.
The National Association of School Nurses says schools with full-time nurses see lower absentee rates, higher graduation rates and fewer illness-related early dismissals.
The organization argues every dollar spent on school nurses saves $2.20 in medical costs and lost productivity for students’ families and teachers.
They allow teachers and administrators to focus solely on education, and 79% of parents say the presence of a school nurse would influence their decision when choosing a school for their child.
How to Become a School Nurse
Start by earning a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) and become an RN, completing all state requirements for licensure. Many schools prefer nurses with at least two years of clinical experience.
Once you gain those, look into your state’s requirements. You may have to earn a school nurse certificate, a credential program or graduate education. The National Board of Certification for School Nurses offers one certification based on clinical practice hours.
Nurses must maintain a current RN and at least 2,000 hours of clinical practice in school nursing in the past five years, of which 750 must be in the past three years.