MRSA

[meeka720]

We have a new student starting soon who is a carrier of MRSA. He is a preschool age child. They claim they need a nurse to be with the student all day. At this point we are not sure if the student is carrier via nose or skin.

What is your thoughts on this?

[Flare, ASN, BSN]

who claims he needs a nurse? As a carrier of MRSA he does need to be more diligent with hygiene, perhaps supervised more closely and there needs to be attention given should there be any medically fragile children in terms of a child or even staff member with a weakened immune system.

The custodial staff should be made aware so cleaners that will target the MRSA (i.e. good old bleach and water) can be used. The student should perhaps have things that are his own and not shared - perhaps such as a cubby or art smock or pencil box or other typically shared items.

I can't see the school hiring a private nurse for a carrier of MRSA - that would be an unnecessary expense. the most i could maybe see - and even this is a huge stretch - a classroom aide to oversee that he is washing up enough andd keeping his hands and fluids to himself.

[rdsxfnrn]

It is possible that he could be eligible for 504...... not sure if MRSA is covered. If that is the case then "they" would have to provide you with documntation and the school admins can take it from there...... just a thought. cc

[schoolnurse1001]

Can't imagine why he would need a private nurse for only being a carrier. Lots of

people are carriers and don't even know it. I agree with the teacher being more diligent with

his hygiene/hand washing but am curious if the Dr. has actually ordered it.

I had a student who is allergic to chocolate and tomatoes wanting the cafeteria to make her special lunches, claiming her allergy as a reason. There is always food available without those items. She just did not like our regular school lunches. Told her sorry but other kids don't like the lunches either everyday and she could bring her lunch but appropriate food was available.

[kidsnurse1969]

A 504 plan would only be necessary if the MRSA was "substantially limiting a major life activity" related to the school day. Except for possibly an increase in absences related to frequent infections and medication administration, how would 504 accommodations apply?