Telemedicine vs School Nurse (for students): What each option does & doesn’t do

Audience: pediatric

When students feel unwell or need health advice during school hours, both telemedicine and school nurses offer support but in different ways. School nurses provide immediate, in-person care, managing minor injuries, routine health checks, and emergency situations on site. Telemedicine connects students with healthcare providers remotely through video or phone, offering access to doctors or specialists when a nurse or doctor is not available in person. Each option has strengths: school nurses are great for hands-on care and quick responses, while telemedicine can provide expert advice and follow-up care without leaving school. However, telemedicine cannot replace physical exams or emergency treatment, and school nurses may have limited resources for complex conditions. Understanding what each can and cannot do helps families and schools choose the best care for students’ health needs.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or severe shortness of breath — seek emergency care immediately.
• Unconsciousness or unresponsiveness — call emergency services right away.
• Severe bleeding that cannot be stopped with pressure — get emergency medical help immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Common illnesses like colds, flu, and minor infections.
• Mental health counseling and support.
• Follow-up consultations and medication management.
• Health advice when in-person care is not available.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency situations requiring immediate physical intervention.
• Severe injuries needing hands-on treatment.
• Physical exams requiring direct contact or specialized equipment.
• Administering medications or treatments on site.

What School Nurses Can Do

School nurses are trained healthcare professionals present at school to provide immediate care. They can:

They offer hands-on care and know the student’s health history within the school context.

What Telemedicine Can Do

Telemedicine uses technology to connect students with healthcare providers remotely. It can:

Telemedicine expands access to healthcare expertise beyond the school nurse’s scope.

Limitations of School Nurses

While school nurses provide valuable care, they may have limitations such as:

Understanding these limits helps in deciding when telemedicine or emergency care is needed.

Limitations of Telemedicine

Telemedicine cannot replace all types of care. It typically cannot:

Telemedicine is best used as a complement to in-person care, not a substitute.

Choosing the Right Option for Your Child

Deciding between school nurse care and telemedicine depends on the situation:

Communicate with your child’s school about available services and preferences.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Ensure a quiet, private space for the telemedicine visit.
• Have your child's health information and any current medications ready.
• Test your device’s camera and microphone before the visit.
• Prepare a list of symptoms and questions to discuss.
• Ensure a responsible adult is available to assist if needed.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s instructions carefully.
• Schedule any recommended follow-up appointments.
• Monitor your child’s symptoms and seek in-person care if they worsen.
• Inform the school nurse about the telemedicine visit and any care plans.
• Keep records of the telemedicine visit for future reference.

FAQs

Can a school nurse prescribe medications?

School nurses typically cannot prescribe medications. They can administer medications prescribed by a healthcare provider with proper authorization but do not write prescriptions themselves.

Is telemedicine safe for children?

Yes, telemedicine is generally safe for children when used appropriately. It allows access to healthcare providers remotely but should complement, not replace, in-person care when needed.

What should I do if my child’s symptoms get worse after a telemedicine visit?

If symptoms worsen or new severe symptoms appear, seek in-person medical care promptly. Telemedicine providers usually advise when to get emergency care.

Can telemedicine replace the school nurse?

No, telemedicine cannot replace the school nurse. Nurses provide hands-on care and immediate response during school hours, while telemedicine offers remote access to healthcare providers.

How do I access telemedicine services for my child at school?

Access depends on your school’s resources and policies. Contact your school administration or nurse to learn about available telemedicine options and how to use them.

Sources

1. Telehealth: What You Need To Know — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. School Health Guidelines to Promote Healthy Eating and Physical Activity — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Telemedicine: Overview and Applications — Mayo Clinic.
4. Role of the School Nurse — American Academy of Pediatrics.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition or treatment.