Can a school nurse participate in the assessment of substance use in the school setting, specifically, can the school nurse use a Breathalyzer for assessment purposes?
A school nurse may utilize a Breathlyzer for assessment of suspected substance use if the school’s medical director provides policies and protocols, approved by the school district, for use and follow up. The National Association of School Nurses has a position statement titled “The Role of the School Nurse Regarding Drug Testing in Schools” that can be accessed from their website at: http://www.nasn.org/Default.aspx?tabid=218.