Iowa School Nurse Mentor Program

Purpose:

To assist new school nurses in the professional development of their role as successful managers of school health programs

To provide a professional growth opportunity for the experienced school nurse mentor

Role Description/Responsibilities:

Mentee:

The school nurse will develop a professional relationship with the mentor to assist with the development of their role as a school nurse by:

1. Adopting a professional framework for practice, which is based on the National Association of School Nurses Standards of School Nursing Practice.

2. Addressing concerns related to the menteeÕs practice of school nursing

Mentor:

1. Making an initial contact with the mentee to share information regarding the mentor program.

2. Developing a rapport and providing moral support to the mentee.

3. Providing an overview of the mentorÕs school health program

4. Discussing the role of the school nurse as a manager of the School Health Program based on the NASN Standards of School Nursing Practice.

5. Answering questions or addressing concerns of the mentee.

6. Serving as a resource for information.

7. Informing the mentee of appropriate agencies to assist the mentee.

8. Encouraging participation of the mentee in professional organizations.

9. Assisting the new school nurse with goal setting and evaluation of their practice.