Thinking about school nursing..

Published

I saw an ad for school nurse open house. I think I might like that and the schedules would work out with my kids (holidays, vacations... ). I'm just nervous because I have only did med-surg (for 16yrs) and feel that I might not know what to do. I worked in the hospital and short time in home health and I need a change. I feel I am so burned out right now.

I have no peds experience, except for my kids of course! My family says I'm too much of a "worrier"! What kinds of things do you do during the day and do you think that my med surg experience would be enough? Thanks.

Just so you realize that in school nursing unlike hospitals there is a long pay scale. You start very low but you move up- my preceptor was at $49,000 after 10 years. I am not in a certified position so I started low and will stay low, but with the hours worked it still comes out to about $20/hr which is what I was making at top pay in my hospital.

The thing that prepared me the best for school nursing is home health. It teaches you to think idependently. But med surg prepares you to have sharp assessment skills which you really need in school nursing. There are emergencies and a lot of judgement calls. It is not just bandaids and colds. Being a seasoned nurse (23 years before I went into school nursing) has helped me tremendously. The regs and computer work you can learn, but your skills are priceless.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I am interested in school nursing in NYC. Is it possible to still go to the open house? Who would I contact?

Thanks!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in LTC, case mgmt, agency.

I am a new RN grad and absolutely hate med-surg. I was an LPN in med-surg for 4 years and a CNA for 6 years before that. I am trying find a middle school nursing job but I was wondering if you have to contact the district or wait for ad in paper or something?

Any advise? I am still in school myself going for BSN-MSN. Someday I want to teach nursing ( like a summer class ).

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in School Nursing.

You need to find out what the requjirements are in your state for a school nurse. In PA, we need certification from the department of education beyond the BSN. Then check on local district web sites and send them your resume. Also in PA, I don't know about other states, you put your entire application, clearences, references, etc. on their dept of ed website and school administrators can look at it from there. Again, see what your state requires. If you have time, in addition to your regular job, it is a good idea to do some sub work to see if you actually like it.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
I am interested in school nursing in NYC. Is it possible to still go to the open house? Who would I contact?

Thanks!

I have the recruiters name and number if you want it. Just PM me.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Hi bknyrn,

I'm not able to pm you. Not sure if you can pm me, but if you can, would you please do so? If you can't would you please give me the name of the recruiter and number through this thread? THANKS.

-------------------

I am interested in school nursing in NYC. Is it possible to still go to the open house? Who would I contact?

Thanks!

I have the recruiters name and number if you want it. Just PM me.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion