School nurses: improve the reception and sharpen the image.
Many educators and community members misunderstand the present-day school nurses. These nurses' roles encompass a much broader range of health-related activities than did their predecessors' roles. Continued education and professional autonomy have enabled school nurses to direct their attention to primary and secondary prevention and to the maintenance of health. By utilizing a systems approach, school nurses can plan strategies that promote visibility and clarify their images. The outcome could result in better understanding and cooperation between the nurses and other school personnel, resulting in an ultimate benefit to children. The organization of a city school district's health service program and the functions of some of its team members are described. Pertinent statistics regarding the district and the nurses working within it are provided. Examples are given of typical school nurses experiences and responsibilities. Numerous suggestions are made for establishing networks with those persons having formal and informal power in order to achieve visibility and credibility. Some of the suggestions include participation at parent association meetings, presidents' council, teacher-faculty meetings, community council meetings and spreading the message via school and local newspapers.
D009519:New York City; D011641:Public Relations; D012573:School Nursing; D013598:Systems Theory