Beyond the Nurse’s Office: How School Nurses can Build Trust and Transform Perceptions

Although nursing is consistently ranked among the most trusted professions, its role is often overlooked or misunderstood. School nurses earn credibility and trust through daily practice: credentials establish expertise, while professional conduct makes it visible. By presenting themselves professionally, school nurses affirm their role and build stronger relationships with staff, students, and families, making them the first point of contact for health questions or crises. Using the three elements of professional comportment—actions, presence, and words—this article offers practical strategies, reflection questions, and resources for school nurses individual or for brown bag discussions. This is Article #2 in a leadership series, and the first of two articles focused on professionalism.