Screenings...

[EB12]

Needing some suggestions. Started half way through the year as a new school nurse without any orientation.

The elementary school I am in is extremely busy and I basically have my own classroom of students half of the time. I have tried to lay down the law a bit but it hasn't seemed to help much.

now I am in a crunch with just a few weeks to finish the remainder of hearing/vision screenings as well as scoliosis. I'm surprised I have gotten as many done as I have thus far. Needless to say, I was unable to get a sub to assist take care of the office visits while I do the Screenings. The per diem/substitute nurses we have do not ever pick up time or barely call back when you call them.

I have several nurses who were previous coworkers of mine who were very interested in subbing but that seems to not have been a priority when I mentioned it to anyone.

However they are looking into getting possible part time help for next year.

I can't wait for the next 4 weeks to be over !

I can do this!

needing positive thoughts and any advice would be greatly appreciated !

[tining, BSN, RN]

I would tell those that do show up - and they will - to return in 30 minutes or however long - the teacher will get the message. Post a sign on the door and lock it - louder message. Send a reminder e-mail in am to teachers.

I basically have my own classroom of students half of the time.

Why do you have your own classroom of students?

[RatherBHiking, BSN, RN]

We've used nursing students in the past to do our screenings. Works out great and it's free! However, it depends on your district and the nursing instructor. We would have one licensed nurse working with them though. In addition to morning, I'd say no kids last 60-90 min a day because they are going home soon so if they've made it all day chances are they can make it another hour without seeing the nurse.