Would You Like Job In A School?

If you are considering a career in the health profession, do what many people have done before you and consider a position as a school nurse.  There are many advantages to this position that you should consider, and if you are thinking of a career that involves nursing, this may be one of the most interesting choices that you have available to you.

As a school nurse, you will be required to have regular attendance on a Monday through Friday schedule, but remember that your hours will tend to be shorter as well; you'll have your summers off, as well as any school holidays.  The trade-off, in this instance is the fact that the pay for a school nurse is lower than that for an RN, despite having the same level of training.  On the other hand, the duties of a school nurse tend to be significantly lighter than those of an RN and the environment tends to be less stressful as well.  Typically, there is not much chance for advancement in a school nurse position, though extended time in the position will give you more bargaining power and agency should you try to get a new position elsewhere.

In a school nurse position, you will find yourself on call to evaluate injuries, apply rudimentary first aid and administer medication.   You'll also be called upon to help out during crisis situations and given your background or inclination and the age of the students at the school, you may also have health instruction responsibilities.  Similarly, you will need to keep in mind that a strong background in pediatrics and a real talent for dealing with children in the age range of the school you are working for is vital.  Some nurses have a great deal of talent for dealing with teens but will prefer to avoid dealing with small children at all costs, while others are completely the opposite.

If you think that a career as a school nurse might be for you, there are a few vital things you will need besides the basic training involved.  You will need to deal with occasionally irate and irrational parents, and you may even be dealing with that with regards to the school's bureaucracy.  Excellent communication skills are a must, as is an understanding of the needs of the age of the students that you are working with.  This can be an excellent career choice for the right person, so make sure you examine the different facets of this position closely.