School nursing: history, present practice and possibilities reviewed

A review of the literature revealed that the early school nurses were engaged in predominantly screening work and as assistants to the school medical officer. The relatively limited empirical work suggests that they have the potential to make a major contribution to the health of school children; however, their current role appears to vary enormously nationwide and the issues of competency for the role and integration into the school team need addressing. The consumer/outsider view literature indicated a mismatch between expectations and service provision.