School Nurse Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the evolving landscape of education, the role of the school nurse has never been more critical.

As health concerns evolve and wellness becomes a top priority, the need for competent, caring individuals who can navigate the health needs of our student population grows.

But let’s delve a little deeper: What’s truly expected from a school nurse?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A school administrator outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of school nursing,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable school nurse job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

School Nurse Duties and Responsibilities

School Nurses are responsible for the healthcare needs of students within an educational facility.

They focus on the promotion and maintenance of health, prevention of illness, and early detection and correction of health problems.

The main duties and responsibilities of a School Nurse include:

• Assessing and treating students’ health problems and referring them to physicians when necessary
• Administering medication to students under doctor’s orders
• Conducting health screenings and immunization clinics for students
• Maintaining health records of students and ensuring confidentiality
• Educating students and staff on health topics such as nutrition, physical activity, and disease prevention
• Developing individual health plans for students with chronic illnesses and disabilities
• Working with families and other healthcare providers to manage students’ health needs
• Responding to medical emergencies within the school and providing first aid care
• Ensuring the school environment is safe and conducive for students’ health and wellness

 

School Nurse Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated School Nurse to provide high-quality health care services to students.

The school nurse will be responsible for assessing student health problems, implementing appropriate care plans, administering medication, and ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.

The ideal candidate should be experienced in pediatric nursing and have a deep understanding of child growth and development.

The role of the School Nurse is to ensure the wellbeing of students, promoting health education, and managing health conditions to improve school attendance.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide health care services to students and staff.
• Perform health screenings and immunization checks.
• Administer medications and treatments as prescribed by medical professionals.
• Monitor and manage students with chronic health conditions.
• Provide first aid and emergency care as needed.
• Develop and implement student health plans.
• Collaborate with school staff, parents, and healthcare providers to promote student health.
• Conduct health education classes and promote healthy lifestyle choices among students.
• Document and maintain accurate student health records.

 

Qualifications

• Registered Nurse (RN) with a valid nursing license.
• Minimum of 1-2 years experience in pediatrics or school nursing.
• Certification in CPR and First Aid.
• Strong understanding of child growth and development.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to handle emergency situations efficiently.
• Proficient in electronic health records systems.
• Bachelor’s degree in Nursing is preferred.

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: School Nurse
• Work Environment: School setting with regular interactions with students, staff, and parents. The School Nurse office is typically separate and private, equipped with medical supplies and equipment.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the School Principal or designated administrative personnel.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $46,000 minimum to $68,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our school. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a School Nurse Do?

School Nurses play a crucial role in schools, ensuring the health and well-being of the student population.

They provide basic healthcare to students and staff including first aid, illness, and infection control, and they administer medications to students according to parental and doctor’s instructions.

School Nurses are responsible for maintaining health records of students and often conduct health screenings, such as vision and hearing tests.

In addition to these basic medical tasks, they also play a significant role in promoting health education amongst the students.

They may give presentations on topics like nutrition, physical activity, personal hygiene, or sexual health.

They also work closely with school administrators and teachers to create and implement health policies and procedures, and they may serve as a liaison between the school and community healthcare providers.

When students have chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or allergies, the School Nurse will often manage their care during school hours, making sure they’re safe and able to participate in school activities.

In emergency situations, School Nurses are often the first to respond, providing immediate care and coordinating further medical action if necessary.

 

School Nurse Qualifications and Skills

A proficient school nurse should possess the qualifications and skills that align with the responsibilities of the role, such as:

• Proficient in medical procedures and techniques, first-aid, and triage to provide immediate care for injuries or illnesses.
• Strong communication skills to effectively liaise with students, staff, and parents, explaining medical conditions and treatments in a clear and compassionate manner.
• Interpersonal skills to build relationships with students and staff, ensuring a comfortable and trusting environment.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly assess and effectively treat a variety of medical situations, from minor injuries to serious health complications.
• Organizational skills to manage health records, track vaccinations, and maintain inventory of medical supplies.
• Awareness of public health issues and promoting health education among students and staff.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure and make quick, sound decisions during emergencies.
• License to practice as a Registered Nurse (RN) and a Bachelor’s degree in nursing or related field, with some roles requiring a School Nurse Certification.

 

School Nurse Experience Requirements

A school nurse typically needs a minimum of 1 to 2 years of experience in a clinical setting such as a hospital, physician’s office, or public health department.

This experience provides the foundational skills in patient care, medication administration, and emergency response that are necessary in a school environment.

Prior to working in a school, a nurse usually must have completed a registered nursing program and obtained licensure as a registered nurse.

This can be achieved through an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) program.

Many school districts also require school nurses to have a School Nurse Services Credential (SNSC).

Some school districts may prefer to hire nurses with specific experience in pediatrics or adolescent health, as these areas directly relate to the primary patient population in schools.

Additionally, school nurses with more than 3 years of experience may have had the opportunity to develop more specialized skills such as health education, counseling, and program development.

These nurses are often well-equipped to take on leadership roles within a school health program.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have held leadership positions in their prior roles and may be suited for managerial or supervisory positions within larger school districts or at the district level.

Such roles might include coordinating health services across multiple schools or developing district-wide health policies and programs.

 

School Nurse Education and Training Requirements

To become a school nurse, individuals typically need to have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from an accredited institution.

This program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of medical procedures, health assessments, and community health education.

After completing their degree, nurses must then pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to gain licensure and legally practice in their state.

Most states require school nurses to have a few years of professional experience in a clinical setting.

It is beneficial if this experience is gained working with children or in a school environment.

Many school districts also require school nurses to hold additional certification specifically in school nursing, such as the certification offered by the National Board for Certification of School Nurses (NBCSN).

School nurses should also be trained in CPR and first aid.

Continuing education is crucial for school nurses to stay updated with the latest advancements in healthcare.

Therefore, many opt to attend workshops, seminars, or pursue further education in pediatric or community health.

In some cases, a master’s degree in nursing (MSN) or a related field, such as public health, may be required, especially for positions in larger school districts or for those with administrative responsibilities.

Additionally, school nurses should have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, as they often serve as a link between the school, home, and medical community.

 

School Nurse Salary Expectations

A School Nurse can expect to earn an average salary of $46,840 (USD) per year.

The actual salary may vary depending on factors such as level of experience, qualifications, location, and the size of the school or district they are employed by.

 

School Nurse Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a school nurse need?

A school nurse must have a Registered Nurse (RN) license.

This requires completion of a diploma, associate’s, or bachelor’s degree program in nursing and passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).

Many schools also prefer nurses with a school nurse certification, which requires additional education and experience in a school setting.

 

What are the daily duties of a school nurse?

School nurses provide healthcare to students and staff within the educational setting.

Their daily tasks include assessing and treating minor injuries or illnesses, administering medication, monitoring students with chronic illnesses, providing preventive health education, and managing communicable diseases within the school.

They also coordinate care with parents, teachers, and other school staff to ensure a healthy and safe learning environment.

 

What qualities make a good school nurse?

A good school nurse is caring, compassionate, and able to build trusting relationships with students of all ages.

They should have excellent observational skills to detect health issues that may interfere with a student’s ability to learn.

Strong communication skills are also essential to interact effectively with students, parents, and school staff.

A good school nurse should also be knowledgeable about public health issues and be able to handle emergencies.

 

What should you look for in a school nurse resume?

Firstly, check for the necessary qualifications, including RN licensure and possibly a school nurse certification.

Relevant experience working with children in a healthcare setting is also important.

In addition, look for experience or skills in areas like health education, emergency care, communicable disease management, and health promotion.

Evidence of strong interpersonal and communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and knowledge of child development can also be beneficial.

 

Is it difficult to hire school nurses?

Hiring school nurses can be challenging due to the shortage of nurses in many areas.

Furthermore, the role requires not only nursing skills but also the ability to work effectively in a school setting.

Offering competitive salaries and benefits, as well as a supportive working environment, can help attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve demystified what it really means to be a school nurse.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about treating minor injuries.

It’s about molding the healthcare future of our students, one care plan at a time.

With our handy school nurse job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully prepared to make your next career move.

But why pause here?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your subsequent stride towards meticulously-detailed job listings or fine-tuning your career profile to perfection.

Keep in mind:

Every care plan contributes to the broader health and wellbeing goals.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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