School Nurse Supervisor
Career review from a person working in the job
How I Got The Job
My Education: AD Science, RN diploma
My Prior Experience: After nursing program, I worked in surgical ICU in a children's hospital. Took a break for family, then worked in long-term respiratory care, then in neo-natal ICU for 5 years.
My Job Profile
My Company: I work in a rural school district in CT
Job/Career Overview: As school nurse supervisor for our district, I am responsible for planning, coordination, implementation and evaluation of total school health program. In addition, I am responsible for providing a wide variety of health care services designed to promote and protect student's optimal health status in my building, grades 3-5.
I act as a health advocate for the children and coordinate the resources of home, school and community as they pertain to the health of students and staff members.
More Insights: My diploma-based nursing school education no longer exists. Its value was in placing us in a clinical setting almost immediately and building on that experience over three years. I was once told by a college advisor in response to my observance that nursing students had a degree but only minimal clinical experience that "we feel anyone can pick up those skills when they're on the job". I feel this is a disservice to anyone coming into their care. So, my suggestion would be for anyone considering nursing that you put yourself out there, in whatever capacity possible, to work with people who need care and/or support.
Love It? Hate It?
I rate this career 8 out of 10.
What I Love or Hate
The best part of my job is the children. I feel good knowing they know there is a place they can go if hurt or not feeling well and that I will take ownership of whatever it is and try to make things better.
The worst part of my job is difficult parents and administration that does not value our work or regard us as professionals in the school setting.
My Career Tips
Remember that children or adults who are "hurting" (either physically or emotionally) are scared and need to feel that their reports of pain are valued.
Work hard on skills of listening, questioning and observing.
Be open to and respectful of people regardless of their age, lifestyle or place in society.
