Calming and coping strategies for the school nurse's new year: using mind-body concepts.

The school nurse is often sought out by students because he or she has an ability to listen to the student, offers an intervention that focuses attention on the student, and allows the student to experience her or his symptom in a new way. Helping the student to change the way the symptom is experienced, shifting focus, and adapting to a new awareness are all ways of using mind-body concepts. Many states' Boards of Nursing Registration have developed rulings expanding the scope of practice to include mind-body interventions. This article will explain three such interventions applicable to the school nurse setting: breathing exercises, mindfulness practices, and the use of imagery.
PMID: 22165486