School nurse is sick of Summer school, what other options are there?

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I'm a school nurse and I'm sick of doing Summer school in my district, it doesn't pay enough to be worth the stress of being the only nurse, what else can I do? Are Summer camps the only option? I was hoping to try out a travel contract, but they all want experience.

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Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

I understand you are seeking a change from your current job because of stress and compensation issues. Transitioning to a travel nursing role may be a good option, but prior experience requirements can be challenging. Here are some suggestions for you to consider:

  • Gain experience locally. If you want to work in a hospital, explore nursing opportunities that provide relevant experience. This may involve gaining experience in different healthcare settings to broaden your skill set, such as subacute care. You need clinical experience as well as electronic health record experience.
  • Continuing education and certifications. While this does not immediately solve your problem of finding a Summer job, you could consider pursuing further education or certifications that enhance your qualifications and make you more attractive to potential employers. These could include certifications in specialized areas of nursing or advanced degrees.
  • Networking. Connect with other local and online nurses who may have insights or advice on breaking into travel nursing or finding alternative nursing opportunities. Networking can often open doors to new possibilities and provide valuable guidance. There is an online school nurse forum here.
  • Research alternative Summer opportunities. While Summer camps are one option, other seasonal healthcare positions may be available that offer a better balance of compensation and stress. Look into roles at clinics or urgent care centers.
  • Consider non-traditional nursing roles. Explore non-traditional nursing roles that may align better with your interests and lifestyle references. These could include telemedicine, healthcare administration, case management, and medical sales roles.
  • Consult staffing agencies. Contact staffing agencies specializing in healthcare placements, including travel nursing positions. Even if you lack direct experience, they may have opportunities suitable for your skill level or offer guidance on becoming more competitive.

Take some time to reflect on what aspects of a nursing role are most important to you, whether it's compensation, work-life balance, professional growth opportunities, or something else. This can help guide your search for a new position that better aligns with your goals and values.

By exploring these options and remaining open to new opportunities, you can take steps toward finding a nursing role that better suits your needs and preferences.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

 

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