I copied and revised this from pedi_nurse. What do you think so far? I want to add that I'm gonna stop giving Vaseline for dry lips and lotion for dry skin but how do I phrase it? Please let me know what you think. Thanks!
MANAGE MINOR PROBLEMS IN CLASS:
Please refer to the attached documents to help you manage some minor problems in class. Headaches, stomach aches, old injuries are common issues that can usually be managed in class. I often see students whose has a headache that "just started" or a stomach ache that started after they ate hot chips or cold cuts for lunch. The only thing I do differently for these students than you can do in class is check their temp. I do not give out medications unless the parent has brought some to the Heath Office for the student with a signed Medical Consent. Typically, students are allowed to rest for 15-20 minutes, given water, and sent back to class, which are things you can try first. Another common request is for ice for an injury that happened over 24 hours ago or that happened during athletics. Ice is not administered unless it is a new injury with obvious swelling/significant bruising. Anything other than that can be treated at home. For vomiting x1, have them gargle then send them to me. If no fever and they hold water down (and don't look pale and sick) they go back to class.
Please let me know if you have any questions about this email! Thank you so much for working with me to ensure that we keep students in class learning. And remember, I am here for YOU as well! Please feel free to call or come by anytime if you have a question or concern.
I also love this email, but as previous have said, this wouldn't fly at my schools either.
Have you seen the 9 Bs? (When to send kids down to the nurse). I can't remember who specifically shared this, but they shared it on the NASN forum. If you can't meet face to face with teachers, sending out an email saying something to the extent of "Sometimes it can be difficult to make the decision on when to send a student to see me, here is my 9Bs rule to help you make that decision."
I think it is appropriate to add that you've been seeing X amount of kids per day, frequently kids have to wait in your office. Also, make sure to reinforce that when they are waiting in your office, they are missing out on valuable class time.
I also love including the Vaseline/lotion/any non-pressing issues at lunch or recess rule.
I haven't had any push back when I have sent something like this out.
stephrooth
125 Posts
LOVE LOVE LOVE this! thank you!