I am trying to change my specialty, is it possible?

Specialties School

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Specializes in Med/Surg.

I just saw a post in our school district hiring board for school nurse. I am interested in doing that because I am tired and sick of the RNs at my work. Always so lazy and unmotivated. My boss also does not let us take vacation longer than 1 week (even you have enough vacation time).

I have been working in PACU for 8 years. I have like 1 year of med/surg experience and I am wondering if I will fit in if I ever apply for the school nurse position? I am making about $66,500 per year. I am wondering if I am going to make about $20,000 less as a school nurse? Do school nurses usually get a PRN or part time job during the summer time? I know they are asking for people who are certified for hearing and vision test. This is something I can totally work on but I have no public health experience.

Do I need to work PRN in a clinic in order to get some experience? I am independent and I take initiative to do my job. I love working and I don't like too much gossiping and too much chit chating at my work, do you think school nursing will be a good job for me?

I have excellent customer service skills, I just don't feel like wasting my time to kiss up to my boss and my coworkers.

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You will just be kissing up to teachers instead! ;) You WILL make less as a school nurse and some do have per diem jobs. You need good assessment skills and enjoy working on your own. Get your foot in the door by subbing if you can. That way you'll see if it's something you'll like and it will give you experience.

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Specializes in Med/Surg.

Good idea. I am going to see if I can find some sub job. Kissing up to the teacher maybe easier at least, I don't see them talking behind my back. My coworkers and my boss always make fun of me (even though I have worked there for 5 years) and make inappropriate comments. It is driving me crazy!

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In NYC if you have one year experience or have a BSN you can become a school nurse. I dont know what it is like in other states but i know some states require you to take a course or get a certificate... Honestly I'm going to say this job is easy... If you've worked in the hospital and are an above average nurse you should do fine and may be overqualified... Make sure you're familiar with your basic assessment skills...

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Specializes in Med/Surg.

Thank you for your info. It is encouraging to hear that. I will keep trying.

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