Today more than ever, parents are enrolling students with high acuity levels in need of constant medical care and treatments. We are seeing more students diagnosed with a variety of medical conditions ranging from anaphylaxis to autism, diabetes, muscular dystrophy and a variety of mental health conditions. The shortage of Credentialed School Nurses has forced districts to find creative ways to staff schools. Agency Registered or Licensed Vocational Nurses are being asked to cover schools, however they are not qualified to perform several of the mandates required. Understanding their job limitations will avoid any legal issues. This article discusses the limitations and stresses the important role School Nurses play in providing optimal health care services to the school age child.
