Looking for new interventions

[Jedrnurse, BSN, RN]

As all school nurses know, we run into limitations as to what medications we can give for the various symptoms/complaints that come through the office door.

I try to expand my "repertoire" with non-pharmaceuticals i.e. organic peppermints for nausea, pineapple juice for coughs, chilled chamomille tea bags for itchy eyes, etc.

Anybody got any tricks to share?

[KKEGS, MSN, RN]

I use cool packs for itchy hives. Heating pad on the abdomen for cramps.

We have also used the mini cans of Coke (with parent permission) for minor wheezing for which we had no inhaler at school. The caffeine acts as a weak bronchodilator and relaxant and would ease their breathing a bit until parents could get to the school. Obviously not to be used for serious asthma attacks!

[Jedrnurse, BSN, RN]

I use cool packs for itchy hives. Heating pad on the abdomen for cramps.

We have also used the mini cans of Coke (with parent permission) for minor wheezing for which we had no inhaler at school. The caffeine acts as a weak bronchodilator and relaxant and would ease their breathing a bit until parents could get to the school. Obviously not to be used for serious asthma attacks!

Interesting; would never have thought of "therapeutic soda"...

[OyWithThePoodles, RN]

I do the peppermints, ice packs or bug bites. Milk for heartburn (and student isn't allergic/sensitive to dairy). Heating pad for headaches or earaches.