In the public education system, school nurses — such as graduates of the online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – School Nursing program from Millersville University — have an important position, often serving as the initial healthcare contact for students. Traditionally associated with managing illnesses, administering medications and conducting health screenings, the range of their responsibilities is expanding.
The growing recognition of the interconnectedness between physical, emotional and social well-being has led to a greater understanding of how social challenges can significantly affect a student’s health and academic success. This raises an important question: To what extent does social work fall within the purview of school nurses?
Evidence from publications such as the JAMA Network and School Mental Health shows the increasing trend of school nurses engaging in activities that address students’ emotional and social needs. While not replacing the role of school social workers, nurses are frequently integrating aspects of social support into their practice. This expanded role acknowledges that issues such as poverty, family instability, bullying and mental health concerns directly affect a student’s physical health and ability to learn. School nurses are often the first professionals to identify these issues through their daily interactions with students.
The National Association of School Nurses (NASN) outlines the responsibilities of school nurses, which extend beyond basic physical care. Their duties include promoting student wellness, managing chronic health conditions, providing health education, and creating a safe and supportive school environment. This also involves recognizing and responding to signs of emotional distress, connecting students and families with community resources and collaborating with other professionals, including social workers, counselors and psychologists.
Collaboration and Overlapping Responsibilities
It’s important to clarify that nursing and social work are distinct professions with unique training and areas of expertise. Social workers possess specialized training in areas such as assessing social needs, family systems, community resources and therapeutic interventions for psychosocial issues. However, the school setting often requires a collaborative approach where the roles of nurses and social workers intersect.
Nurses, due to their regular contact with students and families regarding health concerns, often find themselves in a prime position to identify social issues that may be affecting a student’s well-being. They can conduct initial screenings for mental health concerns, provide a supportive presence for students experiencing emotional distress and make referrals to social workers or other mental health professionals when more specialized intervention is required.
Preparing School Nurses for Evolving Responsibilities Through Advanced Education
The expanding responsibilities of school nurses require preparation that goes beyond traditional nursing education. Earning a school nursing MSN online can provide nurses with the skills and knowledge to address the health and social needs of students. This program incorporates coursework that deepens their understanding of child development, mental health, community health resources and family-centered care.
An MSN program can provide nurses with advanced assessment techniques to identify students at risk for social and emotional difficulties. It can also provide them with a greater understanding of mental health conditions common in children and adolescents, enabling them to recognize warning signs and make appropriate referrals.
Earn Your MSN School Nursing Degree Online From Millersville University
For nurses interested in developing the expertise to meet the needs of students in public schools, Millersville University offers the online MSN – School Nursing program. This program prepares nurses for the multifaceted role of the school nurse, addressing not only physical health but also the social and emotional well-being of students.
By choosing a program like the MSN – School Nursing online program from Millersville University, nurses can gain advanced preparation to make a difference in the lives of students. Graduates are equipped to address the full spectrum of their health and well-being.
Learn more about Millersville University’s online MSN – School Nursing program.
