Nurses consult with medical providers to write and maintain health protocols and plans. They train staff in implementing plans and protocols for students with special health needs. Nurses participate with multidisciplinary teams to develop Section 504 plans, Individualized Education Plans (IEP) or Individual Family Service Plans (IFSP).  

School nurses deliver quality health care services that include interventions for identified health issues and instruction in health management and preventative strategies. Nurses provide direct care to students, medication administration, and routine treatments / procedures as indicated in the Health Management Protocol. They support students, families, and educators to manage chronic illness in the school environment improving the health, well-being and educational outcomes of students. 

In addition to direct care, school nurses can provide a variety of additional services to support health and wellness in school settings. Nurses can assist with updating and maintaining first aid and medical kits; identifying new laws for mandatory screenings or other health-related activities; maintaining equipment related to student health management, advising staff of student medical needs while on field trips; and planning, coordinating and conducting hearing, vision, dental, lice, scoliosis and heart health screenings. Nurses participate in school and community health events as requested. When incidents of potential communicable diseases occur at school, nurses can provide information and guidance to assist school staff with interventions and act as a liaison between school staff and local health departments. 

Standards related to the licensed nurse’s responsibilities for the environment of care. The licensed nurse:

• Promotes an environment conducive to safety and comfort for all levels of care, including self-care and end-of-life care

• Identifies client safety and environment concerns; takes action to correct those concerns and report as needed. 

The school district shall maintain a prevention-oriented health services program for all students that provides:

• Health screening information, including required immunizations and tuberculosis certificates, when required by ORS 433.260 and 431.110 and OAR 333-019-0405

• Vision and hearing screening.