School Nurse/RN

Norwich Public Schools•Norwich, CT

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Under Section 20-87a(b) of the Connecticut General Statues, the practice of nursing by a registered nurse involves diagnosing human responses to health problems, case finding and referral, collaborating in healthcare regimens, and executing medical regimens under the direction of a physician or dentist. The school nurse, in cooperation with the medical advisor, other health professionals, educators, and school personnel, provides a wide range of health care services to promote and protect students' optimal health. As an integral member of the school staff, the nurse contributes to planning, implementation, and evaluation. The nurse acts as a health advocate for students and coordinates resources from home, school, and community related to student and staff health. The school nurse implements state laws, Boards of Education policies, and administrative procedures for health services in assigned schools.

Requirements

Current Connecticut RN Licensure
Minimum of three (3) years work experience in the past five (5) years preferred
Twelve academic credits or the equivalent in CEU’s or workshop hours beyond the basic preparation in nursing
Ten hours of continuing education in school health every two (2) years
Current Certification in CPR
Have completed or be in process of obtaining a baccalaureate degree preferably in nursing or, in lieu of that, in health or a related field; OR Certification as a school nurse by a national certifying body (when eligible)
Minimum requirements mandated by Connecticut State Regulations 10-212-1 to 10-212-7

Nice To Haves

Background in pediatric nursing, school nursing, or public health nursing

Responsibilities

Applies appropriate theory as a basis for decision making in nursing practice.
Represents the School Health Services and the Board of Education in a professional manner at all times, using courtesy and tact when dealing with students, parents, staff, visitors, etc.
Promotes and maintains open and effective relationships and communications between family and school with regard to health and safety.
Consults with the school health supervisor and the building administrator to implement, review, and recommend revisions in policies and procedures for the school health program.
Actively participates in the training of principals and teachers in the safe administration of medications in the school setting according to state regulations.
Arranges in-service programs for school personnel on first aid, emergency care procedures, current health issues, and other relative matters.
Establishes a process to identify students at risk for health problems and communicating relevant health needs to other school personnel.
Maintains a state-mandated cumulative health record on each student including a health history (health assessments, immunization status, individualized health care plan (IHCP), emergency health care plan, nurses’ and dental notes, medication records, and any records regarding the health and welfare of the student).
Implements and evaluates the response to the orders of physicians regarding medication and/or treatments needed during the school day, performs specialized treatments for complex health care needs of students.
Develops a written plan of care including interventions for the medically fragile, students with potentially life-threatening diagnosis, and/or any medical condition that may lead to difficulties.
Evaluates response and effectiveness of the plan of care and/or treatment with the student, parent, and other school disciplines.
Documents observations and nursing care given to students to include interventions, student response, and effectiveness.
Provides first aid, emergency services to students and staff, health counseling, etc.
Serves as a resource person for health and safety within the school building, is on call for emergencies at other schools in the absence of a school nurse.
Participates in the CST/PPT process.
Participates in the student’s/family’s teaching to meet individual learning needs.
Prepares and arranges for school physicals, including blood and urine screenings, growth and developmental measurements, blood pressure screening, tuberculosis testing, and immunization updates as needed.
Presents classes and/or slide presentations with regard to screening programs and health/safety.
Makes home visits as needed.
Participates in kindergarten registration and assists with enrollment of new students by obtaining a health status of each student and is available to answer parental questions concerning School Health services.
Initiates and follows-up on referrals made for illness, injury, screening failures (vision, hearing, scoliosis), and to various social agencies.
Informs school personnel about adaptations of the school program or environment required by students to meet their individual needs.
Serves as a student/family advocate in assuring student and family rights, dignity, and confidentiality.
Identifies health and safety problems in the school environment and actively participates in corrective measures and follow-up.
Provides for a safe environment for students, staff, and visitors in conjunction with school support staff.
Maintains a daily log of services and submits a monthly report to the school health supervisor.