Congratulations to New Jersey State School Nurse Association (NJSSNA) president, Eileen Gavin and past president Donna Pleus for their newly published article “School Nurses’ Emotional Wellbeing – May the Schwartz Be With you!” in the most recent NASN School Nurse Journal. The article is available online ahead of the print publication.
The article discusses the use of Schwartz Rounds as a method for school nurses to enhance their well-being by sharing their experiences. The New Jersey Nursing Emotional Well-Being Institute (NJ-NEW) initiated virtual Schwartz Rounds to address the unique challenges faced by nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. The rounds involve nurse panelists openly discussing their journeys, followed by facilitated small-group conversations led by mental health professionals.
Eileen and Donna’s article highlights the effectiveness of Schwartz Rounds in preserving and enhancing school nurses’ mental health and well-being, allowing them to maintain their vital work while caring for themselves and their school communities. They were so moved by their participation in Schwartz Rounds that they presented their testimonials at the NJSSNA Spring Conference on March 24, 2023. You can access the full transcripts from their presentation as an addendum to the article NASN School Nurse article.
Schwartz Rounds can serve as an evidence-based intervention to improve school nurse well-being through connection, growth, and fostering resilience while acknowledging the challenges and rewards of this nursing specialty. The platform offers opportunities for nurses to engage in conversations about challenging or inspiring experiences, extending and receiving support, which counteracts feelings of isolation.
Reference:
Gavin E, Pleus D. School Nurses’ Emotional Wellbeing: May the Schwartz Be With you! NASN School Nurse. 2023;0(0). doi:10.1177/1942602X231213052
