assessing students for drug use

Specialties School

Published

I was wondering what you all do when you are asked to assess a student who is suspected of being high at school.

Wow, this just happened yesterday.

So, the VP brings in a 17 year old who reeks of marijuana. I got a headache just talking to him. I looked in his GLASSY RED eyes and checked for PERRLA. I checked for nystagmus by having him watch my finger. I took BP and pulse. Really had no idea what to do.

Tried to get him to admit it. Which he did.

This happens about once a week with us and it can be any variety of drugs that are suspect. I only report what I objectively see, such as dilated pupils, blood pressure and pulse etc. I know they expect me to tell them whether or not the child is high, but it is really not within the scope of my job.

Specializes in School Nursing, Public Health Nurse.

Yes I have. I actually found an awesome form for documenting. Message me and I can email it to you.

Specializes in School Nursing, Public Health Nurse.

There's a first time for everything so I'm going to try and post the form! Message me if I totally screwed up and you can't open or read it.

Impairment Assessment for Suspected Chemical Use.doc

Specializes in kids.

Many thx!

I got it kenderella, thanks.

Specializes in ED, School Nurse.

Thanks, kenderella!! :)

Specializes in kids.

I have assessed a fair number of kids (and a few teachers) over the years....I have found sometimes that a direct question often yields the answer. A direct look into their eyes, in a non-judgmental manner.

Vitals signs can be telling as well and the inability of them to hold their eyelids open is often a sure sign. That is such an involuntary response, as well as checking for nystagmus.

A great course to attend ( I am looking for one in my area) is the DITEP- Drug Impairment Training for the Educational Professional. It is geared toward principals, administrators and school nurses.

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