School nursing is an excellent option for nurses who enjoy working independently with children and adolescents. Beyond those benefits, school nurses can significantly impact students’ lives. As youth face more health and societal challenges, schools need highly skilled nurses more than ever.
School nurses also impact student improvement, and the link between student health and academic success is clear. School nurses frequently deal with problems that could hinder learning, like untreated illnesses or long-term health issues. Teaching about health and preventing sickness helps students stay healthy and more engaged in their studies, leading to better grades and more students finishing school without delay.
A specialized master’s degree can prepare nurses for a career in school nursing. For instance, Millersville University’s online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – School Nursing program allows nurses to continue working while they earn a degree. Millersville’s program also prepares nurses for the Pennsylvania Department of Education PK-12 School Nurse Certification.
How Do School Nurses Impact Student Health in the Short and Long Term?
School nurses are crucial in maintaining and improving student health in the short and long term. They care for acute injuries and illnesses and manage chronic conditions like asthma and diabetes. Additionally, school nurses are liaisons among students, families and community resources. According to the National Association of School Nurses (NASN), a school nurse may serve as the only regular healthcare provider for students in low-income, rural and minority communities.
By addressing health needs in school settings, students can minimize time out of class and remain focused on learning. Plus, school nurses help students make better lifestyle choices through health screenings and education. These efforts can improve students’ health literacy and empower them to take charge of their short- and long-term well-being, notes LinkedIn.
What Effects Do School Nurses Have on Student Mental Health and SEL?
Besides physical health, school nurses also contribute to student mental health and social-emotional learning (SEL). They serve as trusted confidants for students, providing a safe space for them to express their emotions and concerns. Through offering resources like counseling and referrals to mental health professionals, school nurses assist students in developing lifelong coping skills and emotional intelligence, positively impacting their mental health and SEL outcomes.
One NASN’s “School Nurse” article states that “For youth with chronic health conditions and mental health concerns, school nurses can support and advocate for their participation in school activities, thus helping them feel engaged, valued, and accepted. As a consistent health clinician in a child’s daily life, the school nurse is in a prime position to reinforce a sense of belonging to support a youth’s well-being.”
How Do I Become a School Nurse?
Becoming a school nurse requires specialized education and preparation to effectively navigate the unique challenges of a school environment. Aspiring school nurses can pursue an MSN degree and obtain certification from a state’s Department of Education. However, Millersville University’s MSN – School Nursing online program prepares students for the Pennsylvania Department of Education PK-12 School Nurse Certification, which specifically equips them for the role of school nurse.
According to an Indeed article, the steps to becoming a school nurse are the following: obtain a bachelor’s degree, earn an MSN degree further develop your expertise (often required), gain work experience since the National Board for Certification of School Nurses (NBCSN) exam requires a minimum of 1,000 hours of eligible experience, pass the NBCSN exam, and maintain certification by renewing your certification every five years. School nurses make an average salary of $62,962 per year.
What Are the Benefits of Earning an Online MSN in School Nursing From Millersville University?
The online MSN – School Nursing program from Millersville University offers students a comprehensive curriculum to thrive in a school setting as advanced nurses. Coursework focuses on advanced nursing practice and includes health promotion and the needs of diverse learners. The flexible online format allows students to continue working while they earn their degree. Graduates are then ready to make a meaningful difference in students’ lives and within their communities.
School nurses play a pivotal role in students’ well-being and success. By offering support for physical, mental and emotional health, they influence academic achievement and the development of lifelong healthy habits. With targeted education and preparation, school nurses can ensure that all students have the opportunity to learn and thrive.
Learn more about Millersville University’s online Master of Science in Nursing – School Nursing program.
