Wisconsin Office of Children's Mental Health Highlights the Importance of School Nurses

Wednesday, October 9th, 2024 -- 12:00 PM

Year after year, Americans rate nursing as the most trusted and ethical profession in the country.

In schools, nurses are entrusted with providing healthcare to their school community and serving as a critical support system for students and staff alike. They are equipped to handle everything from allergic reactions, broken bones, and concussions to medical emergencies. More than ever, they are handling youth mental health as well.

“Students know they can trust their school nurse and may go to the nurse’s office for an emotional problem disguised as a physical ailment. The nurse is usually quick to detect that the child doesn’t have the stomach flu, but is just anxious about something,” says Linda Hall, director of the Wisconsin State Office of Children’s Mental Health (OCMH).

Because school nurses are attuned to potential underlying mental health issues and have existing relationships with students, they play a vital role in maintaining the health and wellness of their school community.

“For many students, there are regular visits to the school nurse who administers a routine medication, like insulin. These children see the school nurse as a trusted adult and the office as a safe space. Both trusted adults and safe spaces are protective factors that can improve children’s well-being,” Hall said.

Though they are trusted health care professionals, school nurses face increasing pressures. On average, a Wisconsin school nurse is tasked with supporting nearly 1,500 students. Some serve as the only school nurse for an entire district. In rural areas, school nurses may have to travel hours between schools to deliver services.

“Supporting school nurses so they can support our children is important for every community," says Hall. "When our kids are healthy, families and schools can thrive. Leveraging the connection school nurses have with students, along with their expertise, is a strategic way to address youth mental health in Wisconsin."

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