New School Nurse

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New School Nurse here! ??

Seeking any advice from fellow school nurses as I begin this new journey. I have been a RN for 2 years at a high risk OB unit. I did postpartum, level 1 nursery, and was a “baby catcher” in labor and delivery. I just accepted a FT position as a school nurse (12 months, not 10 months). I will be at the county hospital during the Summer most likely on their OB unit which is the specialty I’m coming from. I was looking for a change and was looking at either NICU (no jobs were available ??) or school nursing. I’ve always wanted to stay within the pediatric/baby realm. This opportunity came up very fast, they literally hired me within a week of applying. Luckily I did not take a pay cut, I actually got an increase from what I was making in the hospital. And the benefits are fantastic, better than the hospital surprisingly! I’m excited and nervous as this is a new specialty area I have never done. Any advice or guidance would be greatly appreciated! Any books or learning material you would suggest? 

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Join NASN and your state's school nursing association.  Hopefully there are other school nurses in your district who will guide and support you.  Best wishes!

 

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Specializes in School Nursing, Pediatrics.

It all depends, are you elementary, MS or HS? was there a nurse there before? Are there protocols already in place? Supplies? Are the only one in the district? Do you only have one school? There are so many variables!

Tell us what you need! We have a wealth of knowledge and info and are very supportive here! We wear pink on Wednesdays! LOL Welcome!

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I need everything LOL. Any and all advice is welcome! Nurses in my area got furloughed because Covid earlier this year. They are on a hiring frenzy because many nurses decided not to return and went to hospital positions. I asked for elementary but at the moment do not know exactly what I will be getting. And chances are I will be alone. On my own, as a new school nurse. They don’t have enough nurses at the moment to staff high schools with 2 RN’s. 
Pink on Wednesday’s! Noted! LOL.

(I will know more info in 2 weeks and will repost!) 

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Specializes in Elementary School Nurse.

This is my second year as a elementary Nurse. Last year was insane to say the least. I have prek-8th grade. I think around 1200 kids. some days are crazy , some not. I keep busy with all of the Immunizations, anbd CHirp inbetween students.I'm still not sure how to submit State reports!

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Let me guess...Palm beach county @HUN18

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Specializes in Elementary School Nurse.

Nope, midwest INdiana! Are most school nurses salary? I'm hourly, but took a huge paycut ! No holiday pay, fog delays, Summer or Spring break pay!

But I love my hours!

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I was asking the OP

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Yes, PBC.

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Specializes in Certified School Nurse, L&D, ETC.

Join NASN or at least look at their page. there are many helpful resources there. 

On social media (facebook, instagram, Twitter) follow Relentless School Nurse, Nurse Kevin. All have blogs to follow as well. Join the page "School Nursing" on facebook for tons of support from other school nurses.

Good Luck!! 

 

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