School nursing in the 21st century: prediction and readiness.

The complex health and education needs of today's students are prompting schools to develop more responsive school health programs. School nurses' preparation for roles in these emerging programs requires both a vision of future practice and a clear recognition of present skill levels. This study compared the vision of practice in the twenty-first century held by school nurses in a rural, mid-plains state with the vision of a national expert school nurse panel. The findings have implications for role evolution and educational preparation.