Special Needs Nurse (Medium Term Substitute)

Special Needs Nurse (Medium Term Substitute)

Provides for the specialized health care needs of individual students requiring frequent care throughout the school day in order to attend school. Manages medical needs that exceed the capacity of the general health office and supports additional requirements as outlined in the student's Individualized Health Plan (IHP) or Individualized Education Program (IEP).

Performs episodic and first-aid care, emergency response, medication administration, and other assigned tasks as indicated by the student's IHP and/or IEP. Demonstrates the ability and willingness to be trained in and perform specialized medical procedures (e.g., tracheostomy and gastrostomy care) and medication administration as needed. Meets the student at their home and rides the school bus to and from school when required by the IEP and IHP. Maintains daily records of student health status and care provided; completes required education-based documentation, such as third-party reimbursement flow sheets and motor program logs. Communicates effectively with parents, guardians, and physicians to address and coordinate the student's health needs. Participates in staff, parent, and multidisciplinary team meetings as needed. Provides student care in a manner that respects privacy, dignity, and confidentiality while minimizing disruptions to classroom instruction. Takes direction from the classroom teacher regarding general classroom support and assistance with IEP goals (e.g., supporting OT/PT/DAPE programs) when time allows. Promotes and supports the overall mission of the District by demonstrating courteous, cooperative, and professional behavior with students, families, and staff. Participates in required staff development and training activities. Performs other related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Education and Experience: Current, valid license as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN) in the state of Minnesota. Additional postsecondary training relevant to children, adolescents, or young adults with disabilities is preferred. An equivalent combination of education, training, and clinical experience.

Required Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations: Continued employment is contingent upon all required licenses and certificates being maintained in active status without suspension or revocation. Active Minnesota LPN or RN License CPR/AED and First Aid Certification

Required Knowledge: Specialized nursing care procedures, including tracheostomy, gastrostomy, and specialized medication administration techniques. Standard pediatric/adolescent clinical practices, emergency care, and first-aid principles. Relevant documentation practices, including health logs, IEP/IHP compliance, and third-party reimbursement procedures. Privacy regulations (e.g., FERPA/HIPAA) regarding student medical records and confidentiality.

Required Skills: Performing complex and specialized health care procedures independently and safely. Communicating clearly, concisely, and empathetically both verbally and in writing with students, parents, and school personnel. Fostering positive working relationships and operating effectively as part of a multidisciplinary educational team. Managing time efficiently, applying independent judgment, and maintaining accurate medical records. Demonstrating patience, flexibility, and a commitment to empowering students with special needs.

Physical/Mental Requirements: The physical demands described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Mobility to work in a classroom and school environment; stamina to sit, stand, walk, kneel, stoop, and bend throughout the day; ability to lift, maneuver, position, and assist students with disabilities (up to 60 pounds) for feeding, toileting/diapering, or repositioning; vision to read medical equipment, computer screens, and printed materials; and hearing and speech to communicate clearly in person and over the telephone.

Working Environment: Work is performed in a school classroom, health office, school bus, and standard educational environments. Position requires riding on student transportation and occasional exposure to bodily fluids and specialized medical equipment.

Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools