What do school based youth health nurses do?
The School Based Youth Health Nurse works with a preventative focus including early identification and brief internvention activities.  The nurse is often the first point of contact for young people, their families and school community members seeking information, advice and support in health matters.  For issues requiring treatment or intensive counselling, they play an important role in providing referral for clients to the relevant agencies.  School Based Youth Health Nurses do not provide or teach first aid, care for wounds or administer medications.

The School Based Youth Health Nurse provides support and assistance for their schools to address the health needs of young people, their families and school community members with consideration to the local needs.  The nurse provides on-on-one confidential consultations for individuals.  The nurse also plays an important support role as a health adviser for student support services such as guidance officers, police and chaplains.

The actual activities a School Based Youth Health Nurse is involved in will vary from school to school.  One example is assisting in the develoment of curriculum, learning and teaching activities which promote health.

What career opportunities are their for school based youth health nurses?
This is a relatively new role which is evolving.  The knowledge and skills gained as a School Based Youth Health Nurse are invaluable for community based and public health roles which have an important place in the provision of health care services.

How can I become a school based youth health nurse?
This is a role available to registered nurses.  While there are no specific qualifications required (other than being a registered nurse), experience with young people and/or the delivery of primary health care is an advantage.  School Based Youth Health Nurses are requried to hold a driver's licence and a current first aid certificate.

Qualifications in adolescent health, health promotion, public health, primary health care or community nursing will assist nurses wishing to work in this area.  Subjects relevant to becoming a School Based Youth Health Nurse include sexual health, addiction studies, adolescent health and health promotion.  Many universities offer courses which include these subjects.  For information on university courses click here to go to the further education section.

Where can I get more information on school based youth health nursing?
For further information on this exciting and evolving specialty, please contact staff in a Queensland community health centre or contact the Program Coordinator on 07 - 3405 5254.