School Nurses
SCHOOL NURSE
A school nurse is on campus to treat minor illnesses and emergencies and to advise the administrators and parents during major emergencies. Students may visit the nurse with proper permission and a pass from the classroom teacher. Students who abuse visits to the nurse will have their parent(s) contacted and students may be subject to discipline consequences. In the event the nurse is unable to administer medications (i.e.absent), he/she will leave detailed instructions for a certified staff member to administer student medications. STUDENTS MUST HAVE A SIGNED CONSENT FORM IN THE CLINIC TO RECEIVE ANY TREATMENT OR MEDICATIONS.
MEDICATION
Students are not allowed to bring medicine to or from the school or to possess medications unless specifically authorized by state law and district policy (See INHALERS and FOOD ALLERGIES sections below). When medication must be administered during the school day, a parent or guardian must bring the medication to the school nurse for proper storage.
Prescription medication must be in the original pharmacy labeled container and include:
- Student’s name
- Name of Medication
- dosage
- Time and instructions for administration
The nurse may provide limited over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or cough drops with standing orders and signed parental consent. The nurse cannot administer over-the-counter medications brought from home unless accompanied by a physician’s written order and properly labeled.
INHALERS
The Board of Education shall grant authority to the Superintendent to permit a student with an asthmatic condition to possess and self-carry an inhaler for emergency treatment. Permission shall be granted to students on an individual basis subject to the following conditions:
- The inhaler must be prescribed by a licensed physician. A written physician’s order indicating the necessity for the student to carry the inhaler must be provided.
- Each school year, parents must collaborate with the school nurse to verify medical necessity provide an updated physician's order and asthma action plan.
- When permission is granted, parents are responsible for providing inhalers for the student and, if required, additional inhalers for the nurse, principal, or extracurricular activity sponsor.
No student other than the approved student may use or possess the medication. The parent and student are hereby informed that the school district and all its employees are not responsible for any injury resulting from the student’s self-administration of asthma medication in accordance with state law.
Nurse Guidelines
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Students with chronic or life-threatening conditions requiring emergency medication, including but not limited to asthma, severe allergies, seizures, or diabetes must provide:
- A current physician-signed action plan
- Written parental consent
- Emergency medication supply, if prescribed
- Updated documentation annually
Parents are responsible for replacing expired medications and keeping emergency contact information current.
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Students with diagnosed food allergies must have current documentation on file with the school nurse each school year. In accordance with guidelines from the Mississippi State Department of Health, parents or guardians must provide:
- A written statement identifying the specific allergen(s)
- A current physician-signed food allergy action plan if applicable
- Clear instructions for treatment in the event of exposure
- Prescribed emergency medication, such as an epinephrine auto-injector
Documentation must be updated annually and whenever there is a change in the student’s condition or treatment plan. Epinephrine auto-injectors must be provided in the original pharmacy-labeled container. Self-carry of epinephrine may be permitted in accordance with state law and district policy with physician authorization and written parental consent. No student other than the approved student may use or possess the medication. The school will make reasonable efforts to reduce exposure to identified allergens; however, the school cannot guarantee an allergen-free environment.
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Parents will be contacted to pick up their child from school if head lice or any nits (eggs) are visible. The student is not allowed to return to school until proof of treatment is obtained and all nits are removed. The student must be checked by the school nurse or designated personnel before being permitted to ride the school bus or to return to school. One excused day will be provided for treatment of head lice.
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A student who becomes suddenly ill or injured should notify the nearest teacher. The teacher will notify the office/nurse and send the student for evaluation. School officials will handle minor illness or injury and notify the parent(s) as needed. If the student is seriously ill or injured and cannot remain in school, school authorized personnel shall call the parent(s) or emergency contact.. The parent(s) or an approved designee will come to the school and sign out the student. If the parent(s) or guardian cannot be contacted and the student’s situation is severe, school officials will contact emergency medical services. Any associated costs are the responsibility of the parent or guardian.