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.
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 a pivotal role in providing 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.
