School Nurse

School Nurse

Hold a valid New Jersey educational services certificate in accordance with the requirements of N.J.S.A. 18A:27.1 et seq., and N.J.A.C. Title 6 Chapter 11 with a school nurse endorsement (N.J.A.C. 6A:16-2.3(b) 1 through 5 and other appropriate endorsement(s) in accordance with the requirements of N.J.A.C. 6:11-10.1 et seq.)

Hold a license as a registered professional nurse (RN) in New Jersey.

Hold and maintain a current CPR and AED certification.

Demonstrates effective skills in problem solving, communications, organization, planning record keeping and human relations.

Demonstrates ability to work effectively with students, staff, parents, administrators and other stakeholders.

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of child growth and development, wellness education, community health and social service resources, and current health issues.

Have excellent integrity and demonstrate good moral character and initiative.

Demonstrates enthusiasm and the interpersonal skills to relate well with students, staff, administration, parents, the community, and health and social service agencies.

Provide proof of U. S. citizenship or legal resident alien status by completing Federal Form I-9 in compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986.

Provide evidence that a criminal record history check has been conducted and clearance has been given by the Department of Education, or, during the initial six month period provide a sworn statement that the individual has not been convicted of a crime or a disorderly person's offense in accordance with 18A:6-7.1.

Provide evidence that health is adequate to fulfill the job functions and responsibilities with reasonable accommodation pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 12101 and in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6:3-4A.4.

Pass the State required Mantoux Intradermal Tuberculin Test as required by N.J.A.C. 6:3-4A.4.

Meet such alternatives to the above qualifications as the Superintendent or Board may find appropriate.

Reports to Building Principal and Director of Special Services

The school nurse serves as the primary advocate for the health and well-being of students and staff within the school. Responsibilities include health screenings and services, emergency first aid, the care of those who are ill and injured while in the school, maintenance of health records, and instruction in sound health practices. The school nurse should provide the fullest possible educational opportunity for each student by minimizing absence due to illness or medical condition, while creating a climate of health and wellness in their assigned school and throughout the district.

The Certified School Nurse shall:

1. Work in concert with the building principal, school administration, school physician and other medical personnel who are appointed by the Board, completing appropriate records and reports and carrying out medical orders that may be issued.
2. Plan and conduct the health screening, nursing assessments, health appraisals, and health surveys (e.g., blood pressure, dental, vision, hearing, height, and weight, scoliosis, assisting with athletic physicals, etc.) as established by the Board. Make referrals as indicated, and informing parents and appropriate staff of the need for corrective care (N.J.S.A. 18A:40-4 et seq., and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-2.2).
3. Provide information and communicate to families about the nursing program.
4. Communicates with parents, staff, and school personnel on health matters.
5. Maintain and ensure the confidentiality of a complete up-to-date student health record. Such records include, but are not limited to immunization data, T.B. testing, screenings, referrals, follow-up required, and specific medical conditions.
6. Complete and submit in a timely fashion all medical forms and reports, including accident reports, as required by statute, regulation, policy, or as requested.
7. Fulfill State requirements and district policies for communicable disease control and the exclusion and readmission of pupils for reasons of health, reviewing all doctor and medical notes submitted to the school by students and parents. Instruct teachers on communicable diseases and other health concerns (N.J.S.A. 18A:40-3).
8. Administer medication to students in accordance with law and district policy.
9. Follow protocols that provide for crisis intervention for acute illness, injury and emotional disturbances.
10. Provide emergency care arising from accident and illness at school in accordance with board policy. Make arrangements for treatment at hospitals or clinics in an emergency or when requested by the school principal or administration.
11. Understand and follow established procedures for sanitation, hygiene, and universal precautions in the handling of body fluids (N.J.A.C. 6:29-2.5). Train and educate staff annually to follow established universal precaution procedures.
12. Follow acceptable and established procedures for the disposal of medical waste.
13. Select, arrange for purchase, and store appropriate medical supplies and equipment necessary to operate a school health office. Recommend a budget to support the health services program.
14. Assume a leadership role in identifying students with health problems that may interfere with effective learning. Advise the building principal, I&RS, Child Study Team and/or instructional personnel when the need to make adjustments in the instructional program is required as a result of a health condition.
15. Demonstrate knowledge of government, community, and district regulations and resources. Work with community health agencies and resources to provide a comprehensive and coordinated health services program for the school and its students.
16. Participate as a health specialist on the Child Study Team, 504 Committee and I&RS Committee
17. Consult with the Child Study Team, Attendance Officer, and other school personnel regarding the health of a child and the home situation, recognizing that the total family health and home status is important to the welfare of the child.
18. Plan and implement school health management protocols for the child with chronic health problems including Individualized Healthcare Plans and Emergency Care Plans.
19. Immediately notify the appropriate personnel of any evidence of substance abuse, child abuse, child neglect, severe medical conditions, potential suicide, or individuals appearing to be under the influence of alcohol, controlled substances, or anabolic steroids. Follow district policy for Crisis Intervention, DCP&P reporting and Drug and Alcohol procedures.
20. Counsel students, staff, and parents concerning health issues, care, treatment, and other community health issues.
21. Promote a culture throughout the school for health and wellness.
22. Establish guidelines and monitor activities for delegated duties including substitute nurse
23. Serve as a resource to the instructional staff in developing curriculum, modifying instruction and selecting the materials aligned to the Health Core Curriculum Content Standards for a comprehensive health education program.
24. Instruct students, upon request of classroom teacher, principal, or administrator on selected health topics including but not limited to:

• Health promotion and disease prevention concepts and health-enhancing behaviors
• Health-enhancing personal, interpersonal, and life skills
• Effects of the use and abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs
• Biological, social, cultural, and psychological aspects of human sexuality and family life
• Health-related fitness concepts
• Career planning and workplace readiness skills
• Critical thinking, decision-making, and problem solving skills
• Self-management skills
• Safety principles

Serve as a resource to classroom teachers on comprehensive health related instruction.

Understand and communicate current developments in the health field through reading of professional journals, participation in professional development, and involvement in professional organizations.

Complete the required 20 clock hours of State-approved continuing professional development every year in accordance with State and District procedures, as specified in the Professional Improvement Plan (N.J.A.C. 6:11-13).

Recommend policies and procedures that promote a healthy school environment and a clean, safe facility. Identify and communicate to the principal any unsafe practices or conditions.

Attend required staff meetings and serve, as appropriate, on staff committees.

Maintain a safe and clean health office including the care and maintenance of all health office equipment needed to carry out job functions and responsibilities.

Display the highest ethical and professional behavior and standards when working with students, parents, school personnel, and other agencies associated with the school.

Protect confidentiality of records and information gained as part of exercising professional duties and