A school nurse is scheduling visits with a physical therapist for a child who has cerebral palsy. In which role is the nurse functioning?

• A. Direct caregiver
• B. Consultant
• C. Case manager
• D. Counselor

Answer: (C)

Coordinating care and arranging services across multiple providers and settings is the essence of case management. In this scenario, the school nurse is not delivering the physical therapy herself but is organizing visits with the physical therapist, communicating with the family and school staff, and ensuring the therapy aligns with the child’s IEP and overall needs. This role involves planning, referral, scheduling, and ongoing coordination to integrate medical, educational, and therapeutic services for the child. Direct hands-on therapy would be direct care, providing or performing interventions. A consultant would primarily offer expert advice, and a counselor would address emotional or psychosocial support. The nurse’s activity here best fits case management.