Public Health Nurses In Schools

Healthy children are successful learners. The public health nurse in schools has a multi-faceted role within the school setting, one that supports the physical, mental, emotional, and social health of students and their success in the learning process. It is the breadth of nursing activities contained within the role of the public health nurse in the schools and the unique non-medical setting that differentiates school nursing from other nursing specialties.

Richland Public Health provides School Nursing Services to:

  • Pioneer Career and Technology Center
  • Foundation Academy
  • IMAC
  • Sacred Heart Catholic School
  • St. Mary’s Catholic Church School

If you would like to know more about Richland Public Health nursing services for your school, please call 419-774-4545 or aschmidt@richlandhealth.org

Hearing and Vision 

  • Vision
    Children are screened for vision in:
  • Preschool
  • Kindergarten
  • Grades 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9
  • May also be screened if they are on an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or at any time at the request of the parent or teacher.

Parents or guardians of children who do not pass a vision screening receive a written request to have the child’s vision evaluated by a licensed ophthalmologist (eye doctor).

Hearing
Children are screened for hearing in:

  • Preschool
  • Kindergarten
  • Grades 1, 3, 5, 9, and 11
  • May also be screened if they are on an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or at any time at the request of the parent or teacher.

Parents or guardians of children who do not pass a hearing screening receive a written request to have the child’s hearing evaluated by an ear, nose and throat doctor.

Role of the Public Health Nurse in Schools
A registered professional school nurse is the leader in the school community to oversee school health policies and programs. The public health nurse in schools serves in a pivotal role to provide expertise and oversight for the provision of school health services and promotion of health education.   Using clinical knowledge and judgment, the public health nurse in schools provides health care to students and staff, performs health screenings and coordinates referrals to the medical home or private healthcare provider.  The public health nurse in schools serves as a liaison between school personnel, family, community and healthcare providers to advocate for health care and a healthy school environment.

For Parents, Nurses and Educators – School Student Health Information

Organizations

National Association of School Nurses

News and Discussions

Ohio Association of School Nurses

Helpful Websites

Questions or Comments

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