-“stomachache” with no fever, vomiting, diarrhea.
?s- when did it start? What was your last meal? Point to where it hurts. Any nausea? Last BM? Send to bathroom, hydrate, rest up to 10 min then back to class
- “headache” with no fever or other symptoms
?s- when did it start? How much water have you had today? Inside or outside pain? Injury? Seasonal allergies? Hydrate, wait 30 minute, deep breathing exercises, rest up to 10 min with heat or ice if they want.
- smelly kids that teachers send
First contact on this should come from the teacher, sometimes social workers and school psychologists could also assist. But I have called home and just plainly stated the facts as they are given to me.
- “ chest pain”- with zero other symptoms, vitals look perfect, they are not in distress.
always have them point to where it hurts, many times it is not the chest. Ask how long, inside or outside pain, asthma, any medications at home. Inspect area, listen to heart and breathe sounds, pulse oximeter, hydrate, evaluate for emotional reasons, rest up to 10 min.
- extremity “injuries” that kids are totally playing up lol. Aka walk to the nurses office and as soon as they get in here they are suddenly limping
mine are told if no redness or swelling then no ice and since no pain is sticking out to walk normally. BA BYE
- teachers that send students for literally anything and practice no common sense/judgement.
well that’s a million dollar answer, ask the teacher why they are so willing to let their students to miss class time for non issues? Be direct. I was once surprised to learn one did so because once she didn’t and a child’s finger was actually broken or the most common reason seems to be parents giving teachers such a hard time they are just always covering there butts. I remind them my job is not to cover their butts or kiss them but when in doubt to send them. Make sure all teachers have a zip lock bag of bandaids and a guide of what they can do in the classroom prior to sending children to the nurse for common complaints such as stomachaches and headaches or any concern that ‘just started now’. Also empower the children to understand when is and when is not an appropriate time to seek care from the nurse.
Good Luck
