Going Directly Into School Nursing?

Specialties School

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I am a new grad with 4 months of home care experience and prospects to become a School RN. I preceptored with my two year program in a school nursing environment and feel this is really the environment that fits my personality, my lifestyle, and my goals.

My question is...Can I go straight into School Nursing? I am continuing an RN to BSN program next year and am thinking I'd like to leave my role in home care to substitute as a school nurse in the meantime. I really don't feel the hospital or LTC/TCU environment is right for me, but I've heard that it may be advisable to get a year of experience in these areas before becoming a LSN. Thoughts?

Thank you all for your experiences and insight. I have a lot to think about. I was about to start in a TCU, but decided against it once I realized the environment was not for me. I am also newly pregnant with a one and a half year old at home, so subbing would be ideal for the flexibility needed for my new family. I think I have decided that I want a nursing career that I enjoy (even if it is stressful at times, it is not overwhelming), where I could work with teaching preventative measures to children, and that also follows my family's needs. Yes, the downside is salary and having to deal with the wolves (parents! haha!) but I feel these are things I can handle as I gain experience and confidence as a school nurse. No better way to start then to sub and gain some connections! Also, can anyone give me some insight on the job market for school nurses? I know lots of cuts are being made in this field - is there still some hope if I make connections in the district? I am in the Minneapolis and St. Paul area in Minnesota.

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Specializes in Pediatrics Retired.

Totally agree with everything above. A successful school nurse is an independent problem solver and self starter; someone who thrives on the autonomy of, as I've said before, there are only 3 of us here in my clinic---me, myself, and I.

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Hi All!

I am a relatively new nurse ( graduated in 12/2013). I am very interested in school nursing. I am currently working in L&D unit. Although I love what I do, but still the school nursing is very attractive to me

I am currently subbing as a school nurse in one of the school districts. I just started, and when I am there, I feel out of my comfort zone. Has anyone experienced that? what would be the best way to increase my competency as a school nurse?

I try to read up on the things that I encounter at school, but doing it in practice I feel is smth differerent.

I would appreciate any advice.

Thank you all!!!

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Specializes in School Nursing, Public Health Nurse.
Hi All!

I am a relatively new nurse ( graduated in 12/2013). I am very interested in school nursing. I am currently working in L&D unit. Although I love what I do, but still the school nursing is very attractive to me

I am currently subbing as a school nurse in one of the school districts. I just started, and when I am there, I feel out of my comfort zone. Has anyone experienced that? what would be the best way to increase my competency as a school nurse?

I try to read up on the things that I encounter at school, but doing it in practice I feel is smth differerent.

I would appreciate any advice.

Thank you all!!!

Hello! I would recommend contacting your local School Nurse Organization. See if they have workshops or meetings you can attend. It may help get you more comfortable and being around local nurses can give you a confidence boosts.

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