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What Does a School Nurse Do?

School nurses deal with immediate health issues of students and staff, from peanut allergy reactions to accessing fevers. Students with chronic illness and disabilities rely on nurses for services like monitoring diabetes and asthma, dispensing medicine, and feeding tube assistance. You must ensure students meet school health requirements including immunizations. Other tasks include screening tests for health conditions, creating the school's disaster preparedness and emergency service plan, and providing health education.

Education & Training Required to Become a School Nurse

Each state has specific school nurse requirements. At a minimum, school nurses must complete a two-to-three year associate degree in nursing (ADN) via school nursing degree programs. Most states require a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree, and some states require a master's degree. You can find online degree programs for each of these options as well as degree programs specifically in school nursing. All school nurses must hold a registered nursing (RN) license and must pass a national licensing exam--the National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN).

Typical Characteristics of a School Nurse

School nurses must be compassionate and caring. A school nurse must be an excellent communicator, able to build and maintain relationships. This specialization requires a self-motivated individual who can juggle a variety of tasks. The professional autonomy of a school nurse makes this a desired role for an independently minded person.

High Demand For School Nurses

The overall demand for registered nurses is expected to grow 22 percent between 2008 and 2018, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. While the demand for school nurses is high--only 13 states meet the National Association of School Nurses' recommended nurse-to-student ratio--tight school budgets can limit hiring.

Nationwide, RNs earned a median annual salary of $62,450 in 2008, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Some school nurses may earn less than nurses in clinical settings, but these jobs remain competitive because predictable hours and an educational environment are coveted. Often people break into this field by working as substitute school nurses.