School Nurse

Position Purpose

The school nurse identifies and treats health disorders among students as well as, provides instruction in the maintenance of good health and disease prevention. The employee must evaluate the physical and/or mental conditions of students and refer students to the appropriate resources as needed. Decisions made by this employee require discretionary judgment and analysis. The goal is to enhance the education process by modifying or removing health related barriers to learning and by promoting an optimal level of wellness for students.

Education, Training and Experience

• 
  BSN degree from a regionally accredited college/university or a registered nurse working toward a baccalaureate degree to be completed within 3 years of hire date.
• Two years’ experience in pediatrics, school health, public health, or other related nursing field

Certification and License Requirements

• 
  Registered nurse, currently licensed in North Carolina
• National Board Certification of School Nurses (NBCSN) or must be eligible to sit for the certification exam (requires a BSN degree) within 3 years of hire date
• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification
• Must hold and maintain a valid motor vehicle operator’s license according to the State of North Carolina requirements.

Duties and Responsibilities

• 
  Utilize advanced assessment skills in autonomous situations to make nursing judgments regarding complex student needs.
• Serve as the coordinator for health planning in conjunction with students, families, school staff and physicians.
• Monitor compliance of school health programs with federal, state and local laws, regulations and policies.
• Administer direct care and medically prescribed services.
• Collaborate with medical providers to coordinate student care during the school day.
• Provide consultation and training for school staff that performs or assists students with medical procedures ordered by a physician.
• Based on referral, request appropriate physician’s orders, and develop Individual Health plans and/or Emergency Medical Plans for students with chronic diseases who require special accommodations or activity restrictions at school.
• Furnish training and/or written information to staff concerning student’s written health plans.
• Maintain support to students, staff, and parents with regards to medical plans of care.
• Provide health counseling and assessment of mental health needs.
• Collaborate with school staff and community agencies to meet the needs of students.
• Train designated school staff in administering medications and first aid per approved guidelines.
• Perform reviews of student immunization records for schools, as needed.
• Assist school staff with understanding of immunizations, health findings and other relevant health data.
• Screen health appraisals for students.
• Serve as a resource person on health issues.
• Provide staff development on health-related topics for school staff and volunteers.
• Attend workshops and other educational programs to increase nursing knowledge and skills.
• Provide follow-up evaluations on students as required; recommend corrective action where problems are identified.
• Develop policies, procedures and work standards for school health programs.
• Conduct home visits when appropriate.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.