As healthcare organizations across the United States celebrate National Nurses Week May 6 through 12, Spring ISD is celebrating our very own healthcare heroes on National School Nurses Day on Wednesday, May 11.
“Since the school nurse is the only healthcare professional on the campus, they play a pivotal role in supporting comprehensive healthcare access and ongoing healthcare delivery,” said Dr. Felicia Thomas, Spring ISD Director of Nursing and Health Services. “Each school nurse is prepared to handle all types of illnesses and injuries seen on a school campus.”
Since 1972, National School Nurse Day has been set aside to recognize school nurses. The annual day of recognition was established to foster a better understanding of the role of school nurses in the educational setting, and is celebrated on the Wednesday within National Nurses Week, which takes place May 6 through 12 every year.
As the COVID-19 pandemic has made clear, the role of the school nurse is more important now than ever. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, over 40% of school-aged children suffer from chronic conditions such as diabetes, asthma, food allergies, and seizures. School nurses are charged with supporting students and their families, as well as staff members, to support academic success by reducing missed school days through the successful management of these chronic diseases. They are also a key player in the prevention of contagious disorders, such as COVID-19 and the flu.
“From basic first aid to emergency care and more, the school nurse is frequently consulted as a healthcare professional to support the unique needs of the students and staff at each campus,” Dr. Thomas said. “As we celebrate Nurses Week and School Nurses Day, take a moment to thank your school nurse for all that they do for your school!”