Whether bandaging a scraped knee after recess, managing the care of a student with diabetes or providing a safe space for a child coping with anxiety, school nurses stand at the front line of student health. These professionals are not only caregivers but also advocates, ensuring that students have the physical and emotional support they need to thrive. 

For individuals who want to have a direct impact on children’s lives, learning how to become a school nurse can open the door to a fulfilling career. Completing a nursing degree program can be a first step in the process. 

What Does the School Nurse Role Entail?

School nurses provide care, support and health education to students from kindergarten through high school. Their work helps students focus on learning by addressing health-related issues that may otherwise interfere with students’ academics. School nurses don’t just respond to injuries; they’re responsible for managing students’ chronic health conditions, administering medications, performing health screenings and promoting overall wellness. 

Emergency Care and First Aid

When health emergencies arise in school settings, school nurses are the first responders. Their work includes everything from stabilizing a student after an asthma attack to providing immediate care to a student who has sustained a concussion during gym class. The swift actions of school nurses help ensure that students receive the right care promptly, so more serious complications can be prevented. 

Chronic Disease Management

Many school-age children live with chronic conditions, such as asthma, diabetes or epilepsy. School nurses may help implement care plans tailored to each student’s medical needs, working closely with parents and physicians. This may involve assisting students in monitoring their blood sugar levels throughout the day or administering insulin. Additionally, it may involve educating teachers on how to recognize signs of hyperglycemia. 

Health Education and Promotion

School nurses are vital in promoting healthy habits and preventing illness through education. They conduct health screenings for vision, hearing and scoliosis, as well as identify potential health risks and provide resources for further care. Additionally, they teach students about hygiene, nutrition and mental health, helping young people develop lifelong healthy habits. 

School Nurse Career Path

Becoming a school nurse requires proper education, skills and licensure. Here are the essential steps to launching a career in this vital role. 

Step 1: Earn a Nursing Degree

A school nurse needs to have a current state nursing license, typically as a registered nurse (RN), though some school nurses may be licensed practical nurses (LPNs). To become an RN, individuals need to earn a nursing degree, such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).  

A BSN degree equips students with skills such as patient assessment, critical thinking and communication, all crucial for addressing the diverse needs of school-age children. In addition, BSN students learn about professional practice, community health and health promotion. Some nurses earn a BSN as a first step toward gaining RN licensure, while others first pursue an Associate Degree in Nursing to become an RN, and then later complete an RN to BSN degree program to advance their credentials. 

Step 2: Obtain Licensure and Certifications

Nursing degree program graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Once they’ve passed the NCLEX-RN, they can apply for their RN licensure through their state’s board of nursing. 

With RN licensure, individuals may begin working as school nurses. However, some states require school nurses to hold a state-issued school nurse certification or endorsement. These state-specific requirements vary and may involve completing additional coursework or exams related to school health services and student care. 

Beyond state licensing, many school nurses pursue the nationally certified school nurse (NCSN) credential to further showcase their expertise. While this certification isn’t universally required, it’s highly regarded, and it can increase job prospects and salary potential. 

The requirements for the NCSN credential include the following: 

• A bachelor’s degree or higher degree in nursing 

• An active RN license 

• Clinical experience (at least 1,000 hours of clinical practice in school nursing within the past three years) 

• A passing score on the NCSN exam 

Step 3: Develop Key Nursing Skills

In addition to education and certification, school nurses need a specialized skill set to succeed in their roles. 

• Assessment and critical thinking: School nurses assess a wide range of student health conditions and determine the best course of action. If a student complains of a headache, the symptom may seem routine. However, the nurse needs to consider the possibility of dehydration, fever, or even an underlying condition such as a head injury. They must holistically evaluate the situation and ask the right questions. 

• Communication and interpersonal relations: Beyond providing direct care, school nurses educate school communities about health-related issues and advocate for policies and resources that enhance student well-being. During flu season, for example, a nurse might spearhead a campaign on proper handwashing techniques, teaching students how to prevent the spread of illness. 

• Empathy and emotional support: School nurses often serve as the first point of emotional support for students facing health challenges. A student with anxiety may come to the nurse’s office during a panic attack, needing not only medical intervention but also reassurance and guidance on how to manage their emotions. 

Benefits of Becoming a School Nurse

One of the key benefits of becoming a school nurse is being able to make a difference in the lives of children and deal with health issues that would otherwise interfere with their learning. School nurses also reap the benefits of actually working in schools: a set schedule that doesn’t require overtime or weekend/holiday shifts, summers off, and generally less stress than in other healthcare settings. Salary and job outlook for school nurses are positive as well. 

School Nurse Salary and Job Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for registered nurses, including school nurses, was about $86,000 as of May 2023. Wages can vary significantly depending on experience, location and job duties. 

As for job outlook, the BLS projects that RN employment will grow by 6 percent from 2023 to 2033. This outpaces the average job growth rate of 4 percent for all occupations. 

Start Your Journey to a Rewarding Career as a School Nurse

School nurses have the chance to make a meaningful difference in children’s lives every day. With the right education, school nurses can provide essential support to students and advocate for healthier school environments. 

For RNs wanting to earn their bachelor’s degree and become a school nurse, or pursue a different specialized nursing career, the nationally accredited RN to BSN program from SEMO Online can help them take that next step. Accepting students from Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, and Arkansas, the flexible online program builds upon students’ existing knowledge and experience. Southeast Missouri State University also offers in-person programs, primarily from its main campus in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. 

Explore how SEMO Online’s RN to BSN program can help you achieve your career goals today.  

Recommended Readings 
How to Ask for Help 
150 Employers That Hired SEMO Alumni 
How Can SEMO Career Services Help You? 
 
Sources: 
Indeed, “How to Become a Certified School Nurse in 5 Steps” 
Indeed, “Learn About Being a School Nurse” 
Indeed, “The Pros and Cons of Being a School Nurse” 
National Association of School Nurses, Certification 
National Board for Certification of School Nurses, Certification 
National Council of State Boards of Nursing, About the NCLEX 
Sunbelt Staffing, “School Nurse Career Guide” 
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Registered Nurses