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Spain’s School Nurse Shortage Highlights Urgent Need for National Reform

With one nurse per 6,368 students, far below the EU standard, the General Nursing Council calls for legislation and accreditation to address the crisis.

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Representantes de CECOVA y entidades relacionadas con la enfermería, en la presentación de los datos

Overview

  • Spain has only 2,929 school nurses for over 8 million students, a ratio of one nurse per 6,368 students compared to the EU benchmark of one per 750.
  • Regional disparities are stark, ranging from four nurses for nearly 90,000 students in Cantabria to 1,000 nurses in Madrid.
  • Many regions rely on temporary reinforcements from primary care nurses rather than dedicated school staff, straining an already overstretched healthcare system.
  • Persistent vacancies are tied to short-term contracts limited to the school year and unattractive salaries, deterring potential candidates.
  • The General Nursing Council has reiterated its call for a national regulatory framework and an Accreditation Diploma to standardize training and ensure consistent services.