Survey results suggest that school nurses are a dedicated group of professional people who express enthusiasm about the concept of an expanded role, and seem to have already expanded their traditional role as school and community needs arose which they could accommodate. School nurses envision their expanded role to be that of a dynamic change…

A conceptual framework for school nurses in structuring their practice is provided. The following five concepts are considered as part of the framework: public health, adaptation, helping relationships, systematic process, and tools. Each concept is defined, a rationale for its inclusion is given, and examples illustrating its applicability to…

The educational needs of an elementary school nurse differ from those of the high school or junior high nurse. (JD)

What can the teacher do with the health expertise that the school nurse brings to the school setting? Examines three areas in which the nurse at school may assist the teacher. (Author/RK)

Developing national standards for school nurse competencies can influence professional practice, student wellbeing, and achievement. Collaboration between national experts is key. Closely aligning work of the Southern Regional Education Board Council on Collegiate Education for Nursing on entry-level competencies with the "Standards of…

The school nurse is a resource and support to students, school personnel, and communities with respect to students with cancer. This article discusses: general cancer information and statistics; childhood cancer versus adult cancer; treatments for childhood cancer; and information for school nurses (e.g., central venous catheters in school,…

Discusses body image among adolescents, explaining that today's adolescents are more prone to body image distortions and dissatisfaction than ever and examining the historical context; how self-image develops; normative discontent; body image distortions; body dysmorphic disorder (BDD); vulnerability of boys (muscle dysmorphia); who is at risk;…

Examined factors related to health practices of urban minority adolescents. Participant surveys highlighted positive correlations between social support and positive health practices and hope and positive health practices. There was no significant relationship between self-esteem and positive health practices. Implications for school nursing…

This article shares the author's experience as the National Association of School Nurses (NASN) School Nurse of the Year. Recognition by one's peers for excellence in the profession is indeed an honor and a humbling experience. She states that it was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with many NASN friends. Special recognition and awards from…

The concept of marginalization was first analyzed by nursing researchers Hall, Stevens, and Meleis. Although nursing literature frequently refers to this concept when addressing "at risk" groups such as the homeless, gays and lesbians, and those infected with HIV/AIDS, the concept can also be applied to nursing. Analysis of current school nursing…

Pediatric abdominal pain can be a difficult condition to accurately assess for the nurse to determine whether the child's need is for teaching, treating, or transferring. This article describes the process as well as practical tips to be used by the nurse in the school setting. Distinguishing characteristics and findings, including key physical…

This article provides a general overview of the disciplinary process for nurses. It also outlines at least one example of an alternative, often called a diversion program, to the standard disciplinary process. It urges school nurses to obtain legal counsel when responding to an inquiry from the board of nursing and discusses several factors to…

This study examines elementary school nurses' perceived efficacy expectations, perceived barriers, and perceived benefits to measuring body mass index (BMI) in students in schools with mandated BMI policies versus schools without mandated policies. Of the 2,629 school nurses participating in the study, 67% believe nurses should measure BMI in…

A survey of school nurses was conducted in New York State elementary schools to assess asthma and asthma management in students. The survey contained questions about asthma morbidity, management and education, obstacles to management, and school indoor air quality. The reported prevalence of asthma among students was 8.5%. Of the students with…

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most challenging chronic conditions for children, families, schools, and physicians. Because symptoms of ADHD can be mistaken for other health conditions and misdiagnosis can occur, accurate diagnosis and treatment require comprehensive evaluation. This article introduces a school-based…