assessing students for drug use

[radmom]

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

[Farawyn]

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.

[radmom]

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.

[coughdrop.2.go, BSN, RN]

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

[coughdrop.2.go, BSN, RN]

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

[NutmeggeRN, BSN]

Many thx!

[Farawyn]

I got it kenderella, thanks.

[ohiobobcat]

Thanks, kenderella!! :)

[NutmeggeRN, BSN]

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.