Hand, Foot & Mouth

[Gems0607]

Hi gang,

I just wanted to know your policy on sending children out after having a confirmed case in the classroom? We have had children sent out, confirmed by the doctor and a letter has went out to the parents stating if you see these s/s consult with your Pediatrician. One case has turned into multiple and I still have requested the child be picked up and seen by the Ped. When I speak with the parent they state "oh yeah I saw those and thought they were bug bites". They of course come right back because they are fever free and not seemingly ill but I feel that if I don't send them out, I'm kind of "diagnosing" them. I know that it is HFM but I feel as if I need the Ped to make that decision to CYA. Also, this will give the parent a chance to see that this is not normal or typical of a bug bite.

[coughdrop.2.go, BSN, RN]

When I have situations where I know a student have a health issue and the parents are dragging their feet, or refusing to even pick them up, I talk to administration and I get permission to keep the student out of school until we receive a signed note from a physician regarding the child's condition.