JOURNAL ARTICLE

The Utilization of a Community Nursing Internship to Support School Nurses in Rural School Districts: A Qualitative Thematic Exploration of Interns' Experiences.

  • Published In: Creative Nursing, 2026, v. 32, n. 2. P. 205 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Ehmke, Sabrina D.; Hedin, Heather; Marr, Jennifer 3 of 3

Abstract

The article focuses on a year-long paid internship program developed during the 2021–2022 academic year to expose nursing students to the multifaceted role of school nurses in rural K-12 settings. Guided by the 2024 School Nursing Practice Framework, the internship provided hands-on experience in care coordination, leadership, quality improvement, and community/public health, enhancing interns’ understanding of school nurses’ responsibilities in managing chronic conditions, mental health, and health promotion. The qualitative evaluation of interns’ narratives revealed evolving perceptions of school nursing, highlighted systemic challenges such as workforce shortages in rural areas, and generated recommendations for strengthening school health programs. The findings underscore the importance of integrating school nursing internships into nursing education to prepare a skilled workforce and call for policy investments to support school nurse staffing and health equity in schools.

Additional Information

  • Source:Creative Nursing. 2026/05, Vol. 32, Issue 2, p205
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Business and Management
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:1078-4535
  • DOI:10.1177/10784535251390928
  • Accession Number:193525734
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