Job Description of a High School Nurse
The primary job of a school nurse is to ensure that all students are in a safe and healthy environment. By doing this, the nurse is also making sure that all students are able to focus on academic success. The job description may include educating students on health-related issues, communicating with parents and staff about good health practices and being a source of support for students.
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Daily Routine Checks
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A primary job of the high school nurse is to make sure that students requiring medication to be administered are properly treated. This may include administering medication for illnesses such as diabetes, respiratory illness or pain medication for students that have suffered an injury such as a broken bone or sprain. These medications are usually given at a scheduled time of day that the nurse and primary physician agree upon.
Emergencies
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Not every situation that a high school nurse is involved in is able to be scheduled. There are many accidents and unexpected occurrences that take place as well. A high school nurse must also treat students that may become ill during the course of the school day with stomach flu or temperatures. Any injuries that may be related to physical education and sports, such as suffering a blow to the head or face, will require the school nurse to aid in treatment as well.
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Staff, Students and Community
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In addition to working first hand with illnesses and treatment, the high school nurse also is to make sure that staff, students and the community (parents and guardians) are aware of certain health practices and risks. This could include administering information about flu outbreaks ad symptoms, offering vision and hearing screenings or even checking students for lice.
Support
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A high school nurse can also be a support system for students who are dealing with personal issues. This may include aiding a female student that may be menstruating or pregnant. It could also include providing students with breakfast, crackers or a nutritious snack in the event that she is hungry.
Assistance
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A school nurse may also work with students who are on individualized plans that affect their ability to learn or participate in the classroom. For example, it may be the high school nurse's responsibility to make sure educators are aware of students who require special needs due to illnesses. This could include informing educators of specialized plans for a student with a broken arm, or assisting students as they transport from one class to another, which could prove to be difficult in a high school setting.
Prospects
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The average median pay for a high school nurse in the United States is 43,854 per year, as of December 2009, according to Salary.com. Factors such as years of experience, credentials and level of degree can impact the salary range. Another factor that might affect salary is the location and demographics. The prospective job outlook for school nurses is dependent upon a school district's need for nurses. Some schools require only one medical professional, while others may require more. Overall, the health field has been in constant need of qualified, registered nurses who are able to work in a school setting.
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References
- Photo Credit nurse chris image by John Keith from Fotolia.com
