What are the requirements for a school nurse?

[NursePamela]

My question is what is the requirement to be a school nurse? Does anyone know how different it is from state to state? Someone told me that not all schools have one and not all schools use RN's AND... one does not always have to be a BSN if an RN is used. ANy body have any ideas? I am really interested in trying to be a school nurse but not sure what road to go down. We are military and might be moving to NC, TX, FL, VT, or TN. To name just a few. :-) If anyone has any input it is much appreciated.

Thanks,

Pam

[MelissaJaneRN]

It is different in every state. I would find the website for the School Nurse Association of the state you move to. The website might list it or you can contact someone.

In Delaware, we have the strictest requirements and New Jersey just followed suit. You must have a BSN, 3 years of clinical experience, and complete School Nurse Certification through the University of Delaware, and also take the Praxis (teachers) exam.

Another good thing to do is, after you move, go to the local School District main office, and ask about becoming a school nurse substitute. They will surely tell you the requirements and then you can get to know the school nurses in your area and learn how school nursing is also. This is how I got into school nursing. A SN retired from where I subbed and I got her job!