A Review of Four Health Procedures That School Nurses May Encounter

Abstract

The school nurse plays a vital role in providing care and meeting the health needs of students in the school setting. Students attend school with chronic conditions and complex medical problems such as quadriplegia, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and muscular dystrophy. It is the responsibility of the school nurse to provide appropriate assessment, early intervention, and care for children in the school environment. The purpose of this article is to review and discuss the knowledge and skills the school nurse needs to care for students with central venous lines, gastrostomy tubes, altered urinary elimination, and tracheostomies.

School nurses' perceptions regarding barriers and facilitators in caring for children with chronic diseases in school settings: A mixed studies review

“…However, among 177 nurses in one study, only 19% reported feeling confident in their ability to manage a diabetic crisis, while just 25% reported having confidence in their ability to manage asthma/ choking (Ugalde et al, 2018). In addition, to provide appropriate care to students with chronic diseases, school nurses also need to be experts in procedures such as peripheral insertion of central venous catheters, clean intermittent catheterization, tracheostomy care, and bolus feeding (Toothaker & Cook, 2018). Thus, school nurses should follow updated clinical guidelines to manage the health of children with chronic diseases in school settings.…”

Children Discharged With Feeding Tubes and Ostomies

“…According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, school nurses have three main roles in managing children with chronic conditions: direct care, case management, and advocating for students and families to access needed resources and supports (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2017). By providing direct care and coordinating services between the school, home, and medical providers, school nurses assist in children's success and achievement in the learning process (Toothaker & Cook, 2018).…”