School Nursing
School Nurse Job Description
School nursing involves much more than handing out band-aids and taking temperatures. School nurses and nursing aides act as managers and coordinators for the health and well-being of the entire school. The school nurse assesses and monitors the immunization status of each student, provides vision, hearing and dental screenings, coordinates health fairs and lectures, and handles minor health problems.
Credential and Certification Requirements
Education and certification requirements for school nurses vary widely from state to state so it is important to find out what these requirements are before choosing a nursing education program. Many states require school nurses to hold a bachelor's degree, and some require a master's degree. Some school nurses get an interdisciplinary education and hold a Master's in Education, Public Health or Counseling. Like other nursing specialties, school nursing offers national certification (CSN), which is required in some states. Dual certification as an RN and as a teacher may be required.