Any RNs do Childcare on the side?

[Purple_Scrubs, BSN, RN]

Well, like the title says, I was wondering if any RNs did childcare either part time or on the side. I am a school nurse and was thinking about providing summer day care for a few kids for some extra money and to keep me busy. I was wondering what the liability for something like this would be...is there greater risk because I am an RN? Any thoughts would be appreciated!

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

check with the state - whatever agency monitors childcare agencies. Even if you do it in your home there are state regulations. If a child chokes on a cracker, does the state expect you to do CPR? If you have Liability Insurance now, contact them to see if there is any reason not to do this. A friend of mine dropped this type of idea due to liability. Parents expected her to be a nurse to the kids, not a babysitter.

[JustBeachyNurse, LPN]

Even in home care requires a license in my state with strict monitoring standards including who you may hire to help, how many exits to the outside must be readily accessible, hours, age range of the children allowed to be grouped together, Liability Insurance required, fire drills, alarms & extinguishers, and more.

It sounds simple but can be greatly complicated. As far as medical issues you'd likely to be held to a higher standard than a regular teacher. (such as allergic reactions and other medical emergencies)

[roser13, ASN, RN]

Personally, I would never take a side job that involved personal care in any way, shape or form. My belief is that whatever the issue, I would be held to RN standards, regardless of how I was involved with the case, for example, baby-sitter.

Legally, I may be wrong, but that is a comfort-level issue with me.

[Burlshoe114]

I'm glad you asked!

I have thought about this myself and even looked into it!

What you will want to do is contact your state licensing agency about what parameters you must meet to become a licensed daycare.

Next, contact a business attorney and set up a consultation. Some will do this for free, others will charge a nominal fee, but you can write that fee off on your business taxes. (Yes, you will need to file for your business!) This is good practice, even if you aren't an RN, as they will know loopholes and details you will inevitably miss, as well as have access to any and all documents you will need. They also will be able to answer any liability questions you might have as far as being an RN.

Most will instruct you to invest in some good Liability Insurance, which would cover you in the event something did happen. (Again, you would need this even if you weren't an RN, but can write this off on your business taxes.)

For my area, as long as you do not advertise yourself as an RN-run daycare for sick children, you will only be held to Good Samaritan standards, the same as if you were hosting people in your home for a party.

Lastly, if you go through with this, register with your local school to let them know you will be available and when. They will be more than happy to send some Mom and Dads your way!