Nursing law and education law: a practice dilemma for school nurses.

The Nurse Practice Act governs the practice of licensed nurses in the US and prohibits these nurses from delegating administration of medication to other school personnel. Education law entitles students to health services during the school day which include medication administration. Financial considerations do not permit all schools to have a full time nurse. Failure to uphold education law risks financial penalties to the school district. An unresolved conflict arises for the nurse who is unable to satisfy one regulation without violating the other. The nurse's license to practice is at risk. Well meaning groups promulgate laws that produce conflicts and professional dilemmas for the school nurse.