It’s not too early to start planning for School Nurse Day 2024! We cannot wait for others to celebrate us, let’s show them how it’s done! I have been thinking about how to break through the log jam of misunderstanding about school nursing practice and suggest we use this year’s School Nurse Day 2024 – May 8th to EDUCATE and CELEBRATE who we are and what we do!
School nursing is an independent specialty practice that is challenging and rewarding, but often under-estimated, leading others to diminish the need. This is the BIG reason I continue to write blog posts, 8 years and counting!
Breaking long-held misconceptions is a formidable challenge, particularly when it comes to school nursing. It’s time to dispel the notion that school nursing is merely a retirement job or a role of lesser importance. In reality, school nursing is an independent specialty practice that is both challenging and rewarding, often underappreciated despite its crucial role in student health and well-being.
Let’s address this misconception head-on. School nursing requires a unique skill set and specialized training. These professionals are not simply retirees looking for part-time work; they are highly trained healthcare experts dedicated to serving the diverse health needs of students.
From managing chronic conditions to providing vital health education, school nurses play a pivotal role in ensuring the overall health and safety of students. They are the first responders to health emergencies, the advocates for preventive care, and the allies in promoting a healthy school environment.
Consider the breadth of responsibilities shouldered by school nurses: conducting health assessments, administering medications, addressing mental health concerns, and collaborating with families and healthcare providers. These are not tasks suited for retirement; they are the responsibilities of skilled professionals committed to making a difference in the lives of students.
Behind every successful school nursing program are passionate individuals who bring expertise, compassion, and dedication to their roles. These professionals undergo rigorous training and pursue ongoing professional development to stay abreast of best practices and emerging healthcare trends.
It’s time to recognize the invaluable contributions of school nurses and elevate their status as essential members of the educational community. By breaking down misconceptions and highlighting the specialized nature of school nursing, we can ensure that these professionals receive the respect and support they deserve.
Join in celebrating school nursing and advocating for our recognition as indispensable pillars of student health and well-being. Together, let’s champion the vital role of school nurses and ensure that every student has access to the high-quality healthcare they deserve.
What will you do from your health office to share the importance of your role? Please let me know and I will gather the data and stories collected from across the country and post them in the upcoming weeks.
Here is some help from NASN:
SCHOOL NURSE DAY 2024
Wednesday, May 8, 2024
Since 1972, National School Nurse Day has been set aside to recognize school nurses.
National School Nurse Day was established to foster a better understanding of the role of school nurses in the educational setting.
School Nurse Day is celebrated on the Wednesday within National Nurses Week. National Nurses Week is May 6-12 each year.
PROCLAMATION
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Amen! Thanks for being a champion for the work that we as school nurses do! Often we are overlooked until we are NOT present and crisis arise- then everyone begins to look for the nurse. Awesome having the opportunity to meet you in 2023 GASN conference!
Thank you for the thoughtful comment Kristie! I LOVED being at the GASN conference! What a wonderful group.