What are the professional standards that guide practice of school nurses?

National Association of School Nurses (NASN) Professional Standards for School Nursing Practice:

1. Practice Standards: Reflect the scope and essential competencies of school nurse practice, describing professional behaviors related to health services, direct and indirect care, case management, care coordination, program planning/implementation/evaluation, consultation/collaboration, health and safety surveillance, research and professional practice, and wellness promotion.

2. Quality Standards: Standards reflect the principles of evidence-based practice and quality improvement. Examples include ensuring students receive nursing care services that are safe, timely, efficient, effective, and equitable; using a system to identify, record, and report outcome data; and participating in quality improvement activities to monitor the effectiveness and safety of school nursing services.

3. Structure Standards: Address necessary conditions and resources to support nursing practice in the school setting. Examples include safe and appropriate school facilities and work environments for school nurses; administrative and leadership support; policies and procedures that enable school nurses to practice in accordance with regulatory and professional standards; access to resources and professional development opportunities; and adequate and appropriate staffing.

4. Resource Standards: Detail elements of administrative and financial support that enable effective school nursing practice, such as adequate budget, staff time, professional education and training for school nurses, and physical resources.

5. Educational Standards: Describe nursing education and continuous learning experiences that enable school nurses to demonstrate competency in performing their duties and responsibilities. Examples include completion of a recognized nursing education program, specialized preparation in school nursing, and ongoing continuing education related to child/adolescent health.