Workload Question

[guest83140]

New RN in middle school of 850. Kids spoiled, visits 55-75 a day, steady stream. In TX we do vision, hearing, scoliosis and now antes screening. Input in computer. Constant stream of immunization printouts monthly, referrals. Chasing parents via phone, mail, students in class. Had to teach CPR classes 4 times school-wide program. Diabetes classes soon to be set up to teach staff. Now the school added army type classes and have been called outside to pick up injuried kids while leaving kids in the clinic waiting. Today 2 asthma attacks sent me out while the army person/teacher stands nearby helplessly. I was told to get a list and call all the parents and tell them to get a doctor's note to bring inhalers outside. But I have no time to do this. Starting to feel pulled many directions. Office not helpful and made comment today about me letting kids use my phone. Because they are frustrated when they have a call on hold for me,have only one line. But if they are ill they send them to my office to use phone to call mom and I am frequently tied up with wrapping sprains,assisting kids to void, giving meds. I read school emails at home. What do you think of this?

[Jeanine]

Middle school kids should be able to carry their own inhaler, we have a dr's form for that & I have them demonstrate proper use. You cannot leave your sick students unattended in your office to get injured kids from outside. Start sending students back to class if there is no fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or other acute problem, and you'll have less requests after a while. I have my middle school students get their own ice, do minor wound care, get band-aids, remove splinters, and other non-acute procedures for themselves (as they would at home). If you don't have time for Diabetes education, purchase a video, make some handouts (we give a folder on allergies, diabetes, seizures, & blood-borne pathogens on the 1st day of school) and be available for specific questions. Accurate record keeping, screenings, medications, emergency care/first aid, and child abuse/neglect are about the only things that you can be effective at right now. Once you make the job and health office your own, it will be easier to pick up additional responsibilities - like CPR, health counseling, etc. - and will feel less overwhelmed. You're only one person, so hang in there, give it some time, and keep your expectations real!