Certified School Nurse

Job Title: Certified School Nurse (CSN)

Job Summary:

The Certified School Nurse (CSN) promotes the health and well-being of students by providing health services, developing health care plans, and supporting a healthy school environment. The CSN is responsible for managing medical issues, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations, and serving as a liaison between school personnel, families, and healthcare providers.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Health Services and Clinical Care

• Provide direct nursing care to students and staff including first aid, chronic disease management, and emergency response.
• Administer medications and perform medical procedures according to physician orders and parent consent.
• Maintain up-to-date health records for all students in compliance with privacy regulations (e.g., HIPAA, FERPA).

2. Health Assessments and Screenings

• Conduct screenings (e.g., vision, hearing, BMI) as mandated by state guidelines.
• Monitor and manage immunization compliance and exclusion criteria.
• Identify students with special health needs and develop individualized healthcare plans (IHPs).

3. Case Management and Collaboration

• Collaborate with parents, teachers, counselors, and physicians regarding student health needs.
• Serve on the IEP or 504 Plan team as appropriate, providing input related to health accommodations.
• Refer students and families to community health resources as needed.

4. Health Education and Promotion

• Educate students and staff on health-related topics such as hygiene, nutrition, disease prevention, and mental wellness.
• Develop and implement school-wide health initiatives and wellness programs.

5. Compliance and Documentation

• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal health regulations.
• Maintain accurate and confidential student health records.
• Prepare required reports for school administration and public health authorities.

Qualifications:

Required:

• Current Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of employment.
• School Nurse Certification (per state requirement, often through Department of Education).
• CPR and First Aid certification.
• Bachelor’s degree in Nursing (BSN), or higher.

Preferred:

• Experience in pediatric, community, or public health nursing.
• Prior experience in a school or educational setting.
• Knowledge of special education laws (IDEA, Section 504).

Skills and Competencies 

• Strong clinical assessment and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Cultural sensitivity and ability to work with diverse populations.
• Proficiency in electronic health records (EHR) and basic office software.

Work Environment:

• Typically works in school health office; may travel between schools in a district.
• May be exposed to infectious diseases and emergency situations.
• Follows school calendar; may require occasional after-hours work for events or emergencies.