May 9 has been designated as National School Nurse Day. It is a time to recognize school nurses and acknowledge their role in the educational setting. Every day they contribute to improving the safety, health, and academic success of all students.
Schools nurses and nurse assistants offer love and comfort to students and parents when circumstances arise. They tend to wounds, treat illnesses, and provide a generous dose of reassurance that helps to heal both pain and fear.
School nurses are a vital part of the school environment and of a child’s health care network that extends to family and community. They are on call for the daily treatment of chronic conditions to that of a first responder in an emergency. Day in and day out there are a multitude of health care needs placed on these professionals.
School nurses allow teachers to focus on instruction and a student’s individual educational needs. They prepare school staff to recognize and respond appropriately to potential emergencies. Most importantly, they train the school’s future leaders of today on the importance of health and choosing a healthy lifestyle.
Join in thanking a school nurse or nurse assistant on May 9.