Saturday, March 15, 2025

Why School Nurses Need To Be Invited

Pull Up a Chair: Learning How To Invite Yourself to the Table

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As a school nurse, you are the healthcare expert in your building. You see students daily for everything from minor injuries to chronic illness management, mental health concerns, and social-emotional struggles. But despite your expertise and firsthand knowledge, you may find yourself left out of important conversations about student health and well-being. If you’re waiting for an invitation to join these discussions—you might be waiting a long time. It’s time to learn how to get your invitation and pull up your own chair.

Why You Need to Be at the Table

School nurses play a vital role in student well-being, yet they’re often left out of important conversations simply because others don’t realize the depth of their expertise. By advocating for a seat at the table, school nurses can break down silos, strengthen collaboration, and ultimately provide better care for students. If you wait for an invitation, you might miss the chance to make a real impact! Learning to pull up your own chair ensures that the health perspective—especially in areas like mental health, safety, and student support—is represented.

Many school-based committees and initiatives focus on student health, safety, and well-being, yet school nurses are often overlooked when these groups are formed. Whether it’s a suicide prevention team, a student support committee, a truancy meeting, or a crisis response team, your input is critical. You are uniquely positioned to recognize patterns that others may miss, such as students with frequent somatic complaints tied to anxiety or those showing signs of self-harm. You understand how health conditions impact learning and can bridge the gap between medical and educational needs.

By inviting yourself to these conversations, you:

  • Prioritize student health – Your perspective is essential in discussions on mental health, safety protocols, and emergency preparedness.

  • Strengthen collaboration – Working alongside teachers, counselors, and administrators helps create a more comprehensive support system for students.

  • Advocate for your role – The more visibility you have, the more others will understand the depth of your expertise and the importance of school nursing.

  • Improve student outcomes – Your voice can shape policies and interventions that directly impact student health and success.





How to Invite Yourself

If you discover a team, committee, or initiative that aligns with your role and passion, take the initiative to join. Here’s how you can approach it in a way that feels natural and professional:

1. Express Interest with Curiosity

Instead of focusing on why you weren’t invited, frame it as wanting to support the initiative:

"I recently learned about the suicide prevention group, and I think it’s such an important initiative. As the school nurse, I’d love to contribute and collaborate. I often see students who may be struggling—whether through frequent health office visits for stress-related symptoms, signs of self-injury, or other concerns that are shared with me. I’d love to support the team’s efforts. Would it be possible to receive calendar invites for future meetings so I can join?"

"I had an idea that might help give us a more complete picture of the students going through the MTSS process—adding some input from the nurse’s office to the problem-solving form. Things like known medical conditions, a quick summary of nurse visits, or participation in programs like XXX could really help us understand the bigger picture and how it impacts their school experience. Let me know what you think. Thanks so much!"

"I’d love to join the truancy meetings to help provide insight from the health office. I often see students whose absences are linked to health concerns—chronic conditions, anxiety, or other barriers that may not be immediately obvious. Including this perspective could help us better support them. Would it be possible to be added to the meetings? Let me know what you think—I'm happy to chat more!" 

2. Highlight Your Unique Role

You bring a different (and valuable) perspective:

  • You see students with physical complaints that may actually be rooted in emotional distress.

  • You often have private, one-on-one conversations with students who may not open up to teachers or counselors.

  • You can help identify patterns in health office visits that might indicate a student is struggling.

3. Keep It About the Students

People don’t know what they don’t know, and that includes understanding the full scope of a school nurse’s role. Many assume we’re just here for bumps, bruises and daily meds, without realizing that we’re trained to assess both physical and mental health concerns, recognize patterns in student behavior, and provide critical input on issues like attendance, chronic illness, and mental health. Because of this, school nurses are sometimes unintentionally left out of important discussions—not out of intentional exclusion, but simply because others don’t realize the depth of our expertise.

It’s completely natural to feel a little hurt when you realize you weren’t included in a team or meeting that aligns with your role. But instead of dwelling on the oversight, it helps to frame your involvement around how you can support students. A simple, proactive approach—like expressing interest, highlighting your unique perspective, and emphasizing collaboration—can open doors. In most cases, once others understand what you bring to the table, they’ll welcome your participation.

This shift in mindset not only helps you gain a seat at the table but also strengthens your presence as a key player in student support teams. If you wait for an invitation, you might miss the chance to make a real impact!

Don’t Wait for Permission

Too often, school nurses hesitate to step forward because they assume they need an invitation or worry about stepping on toes. But advocating for yourself isn’t about pushing in—it’s about making sure that student health is not an afterthought. Schools function best when all key stakeholders are involved, and school nurses are absolutely key stakeholders.

If you see a seat missing at the table, don’t be afraid to pull up your own chair. Your students will be better for it, and so will your school community.



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Tuesday, March 11, 2025

School Nurse Must-Know: Allergy Preparedness Schools

Allergy Emergencies: Are You Prepared?

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Essential Allergy Preparedness for School Nurses


Allergic reactions can be unpredictable and triggered by a wide range of substances, from food and insect stings to environmental allergens and unknown causes. Each exposure has the potential to cause a more severe reaction than the last, making it essential for school nurses to stay prepared. 

Having a solid plan in place, including staff training, access to emergency medication, and clear communication with families, ensures that students receive prompt and effective care when every second counts. 

How Should a School Nurse Respond to a Life-Threatening Allergy?

Allergy emergencies can occur suddenly and without warning, making it crucial to have a well-structured response plan in place. A proactive approach ensures that students with severe allergies receive the care they need quickly and effectively. Here are key factors to consider when preparing for potential allergic reactions in the school setting:

  • Does your district require an allergy action plan? Verify if your school requires a formal allergy action plan or medication authorization for students with severe allergies.
  • How are students with severe allergies identified? Develop a system for safely identifying students at risk, ensuring privacy while keeping key personnel informed.
  • How will you gather additional health information? Consider using a standardized health history form to collect essential details from parents and update records as needed.
  • Are students allowed to carry their own emergency medications? Check district policies regarding self-carry and self-administration of epinephrine, and educate students on their responsibilities.
  • Who needs to be trained? Identify staff members who should be trained to recognize allergic reactions and administer epinephrine, including teachers, coaches, and cafeteria staff.
  • How will staff receive training? Determine the best method for educating staff on allergy signs, symptoms, and emergency medication use. Hands-on demonstrations and annual refresher sessions can be valuable.

Having a well-defined allergy response plan not only helps ensure a coordinated approach in an emergency but also fosters a safer school environment.

Notifying School Staff About Student Health Concerns

Effective communication with teachers and staff is essential to ensuring that students with life-threatening allergies receive the support and care they need. Clear, consistent messaging helps staff recognize allergic reactions, understand emergency protocols, and respond appropriately when seconds matter.

Utilizing email and student management systems like Skyward can streamline the process of sharing critical health information. Consider these best practices:

  • Email Notifications: Send targeted emails to teachers and key staff outlining students’ allergy action plans, emergency protocols, and any necessary accommodations.
  • Digital Health Records: Upload allergy action plans, medication authorizations, and emergency procedures into Skyward or your school's health management system to ensure easy access for authorized personnel.
  • Teacher Tips: Provide staff with quick-reference guides that summarize key allergy information and response steps, helping them feel more prepared in an emergency.
  • In-Person Follow-Ups: Encourage teachers to reach out with questions or concerns and offer brief, in-person training when necessary.

By integrating digital tools and direct communication, school nurses can ensure that all staff members are informed, confident, and ready to act if an allergy emergency arises.

Why Notify School Staff?

As school nurses, we often assume that others have a basic understanding of medical conditions, but that’s not always the case. Teachers and staff may not recognize the signs of an allergic reaction or know how to respond in an emergency. That’s why providing clear, accessible education is essential to keeping students safe.

Teacher Tips health cards offer a simple yet effective way to share broad information about medical conditions, including severe allergies. These quick-reference cards give staff an overview of allergy symptoms, emergency response steps, and key precautions. They also serve as an open invitation for teachers to ask questions and seek more detailed guidance as needed.

By proactively educating school staff, we can help create a safer environment where everyone is equipped to respond confidently in an allergy emergency.

Using Skyward for Health Notifications

If your school uses Skyward, take advantage of the Health module by attaching digital Teacher Tips  cards under a student’s health records. Follow these steps:

  1. Open the student’s profile in the Health tab.
  2. Select "IHP" (Individualized Healthcare Plan).
  3. Click "Add File" and upload the Teacher Tips document as a PDF.
  4. Use the comment box to include student-specific notes or important details for staff.

Using Skyward to document student health conditions is a valuable tool for ensuring that essential medical information is accessible to those who need it. Be sure to add an indicator so teachers are prompted to review any health concerns that may impact their students.

If you're using an older version of Skyward and need guidance, I have a step-by-step how-to guide available HERE to help you navigate the system efficiently. Keeping health records up to date and easily accessible helps ensure a swift and informed response in case of a medical emergency.

This system is particularly helpful for middle and high school students who have multiple teachers throughout the day. Additionally, the Health Condition tab in Skyward can be a useful tool for tracking medical concerns and running reports throughout a school year.


Apply for Free EpiPens

Does your school have undesignated epinephrine available for emergency allergy situations? If you’ve been following this blog, you know that Mylan Pharmaceuticals  & BioRidge Pharma offer schools two free two-packs of epinephrine auto-injectors, along with replenishment doses and training devices, each calendar year. This program has saved schools significant amounts of money while also ensuring life-saving medication is readily available.

While there is required paperwork to complete, it is straightforward. Schools must have a district physician or a local doctor willing to sign an order or provide a standing prescription.

Having emergency epinephrine in every school building can be the difference between life and death for a student, staff member, or visitor. You can find more details and apply for the program HERE.

Final Thoughts

Allergy preparedness is a vital responsibility in school nursing. Making sure there is access to emergency medication, educating staff on allergy recognition and response, and utilizing digital communication tools all contribute to a safer school environment for students with severe allergies.

If you have experience using undesignated epinephrine in a school setting or if your state provides standing orders for emergency medications, I’d love to hear from you! Share your insights in the comments—your experiences can help other school nurses strengthen their own preparedness efforts.




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HEALTH CONCERN LABELSSEVERE ALLERGYASTHMA

 


Saturday, March 1, 2025

Mandated Reporting for School Nurses: What You Need to Know

The School Nurse's Role in Keeping Students Safe

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Mandated Reporting for School Nurses: What You Need to Know

As a school nurse, you are not just a healthcare provider—you are also a mandated reporter. This means you are legally required to report any suspected cases of child abuse or neglect. While this responsibility can feel overwhelming, understanding your role and knowing what steps to take can help you navigate this crucial aspect of your job with confidence.

What Is Mandated Reporting?

Mandated reporting laws exist to protect children from abuse and neglect. These laws require certain professionals, including school nurses, to report suspicions of harm to child protective services (CPS) or the appropriate local authorities. Every state has its own specific guidelines, so it’s essential to familiarize yourself with your state's reporting requirements and how/where to make reports.

Recognizing Signs of Abuse or Neglect

Abuse and neglect can take many forms. As a school nurse, you may notice physical, emotional, or behavioral indicators that suggest a child is in danger. Some common signs include:

  • Physical Abuse: Unexplained bruises, burns, fractures, or injuries in various stages of healing.

  • Neglect: Poor hygiene, malnutrition, unattended medical needs, or consistent lack of supervision.

  • Sexual Abuse: Knowledge of sexual topics beyond their age, trouble walking or sitting, or sudden behavioral changes.

  • Emotional Abuse: Extreme withdrawal, aggression, or excessive fear of making mistakes.

These signs alone may not confirm abuse, but they should prompt concern and documentation.

How to Make a Report

If you suspect abuse or neglect, follow these steps:

  1. Document Your Observations – Write down detailed, factual information about what you have seen or heard. Avoid assumptions or opinions.

  2. Follow Your School’s Protocol – Many schools have policies in place for reporting suspected abuse. While you can notify your administrator as part of following protocol, you do not need their permission to make a report.

  3. Contact the Appropriate Authorities – Reports are typically made to CPS or law enforcement. Some states require an immediate phone report, while others allow online reporting. In Illinois, for example, mandated reporters must complete and submit a CANTS form after making a report to the Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline (1-800-25-ABUSE) or online at Illinois Department of Children & Family Services. Other states may have similar documentation requirements, so be sure to check your state’s process. 

  4. Maintain Confidentiality – Never discuss your concerns with unauthorized individuals. Your role is to report, not to investigate.

What Happens After a Report is Made?

Once a report is filed, child protective services will assess the situation and determine the appropriate course of action. This may involve interviewing the child, family members, and school personnel. Reporters may or may not receive follow-up information due to confidentiality laws. However, mandated reporters should trust that their report contributes to protecting the child and initiating any necessary interventions. 

Addressing the Discomfort of Reporting

Making a report can feel uncomfortable, especially if you worry about being wrong or the potential consequences for the child and their family. Additionally, while mandated reporters remain confidential, they might not be anonymous—families may deduce who made the report based on their interactions. This can be unsettling, but it’s important to remember that your duty is to protect the child, regardless of any discomfort. You may feel uneasy about involving authorities or fear retaliation from parents. However, it is crucial to remember that mandated reporting is about protecting children and ensuring their safety. It is always better to make a report in good faith than to ignore a potential case of abuse or neglect.

Even if a situation is difficult, school nurses must trust their instincts and training. While you may feel uneasy about how families will react, mandated reporting laws are designed to prioritize child safety above all else. Reporting does not mean you are accusing someone—it means you are raising a concern that professionals can further investigate and provide outside resources that might help the family. Your role is vital in ensuring children get the help they need, even if it feels challenging in the moment.

Overcoming Common Fears About Reporting

Many school nurses hesitate to report suspected abuse for fear of making a mistake or facing backlash. Here’s why you should always report when in doubt:

  • You are protected by law. Most states have immunity laws that protect mandated reporters from legal repercussions if a report is made in good faith.

  • You don’t need proof. Your role is to report reasonable suspicions, not to investigate.

  • Failing to report can have consequences. In some states, failure to report suspected abuse can result in legal penalties, including fines or loss of licensure.

Final Thoughts

Mandated reporting is an essential part of protecting vulnerable students. By staying informed, recognizing the signs, and taking action when needed, school nurses play a crucial role in safeguarding children in their schools. While it may not always be comfortable, reporting is a necessary and legally required duty that can make all the difference in a child’s life. If you ever feel unsure about a situation, consult with your school’s support team or seek training on mandated reporting in your state.

Additional Resources:



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