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Basic Things a School Nurse Should Know

Because students' health is directly related to their ability to learn, it's imperative that a school nurse meet the health needs of students so they can fully engage in the educational process. School nurses oversee school health policies and provide health care to students and staff. As of 2011, American public schools are suffering from a shortage of school nurses -- 25 percent don't have a nurse, according to the National Association of School Nurses.

  1. Nosebleed

    • For treating nosebleeds, maintain calm by reminding the child that many other children also have nosebleeds -- it's not unusual. Ask the child to lean his head forward and ask him to pinch the soft part of his nose for 10 minutes. Once the bleeding has stopped, ask the child to try to avoid irritating the area for a day because sneezing or blowing the nose can cause the bleeding to resume.

    Sprains

    • Sprains can often be hard to diagnose, and depending on the severity of the symptoms, it may be wise to advise the child to visit a walk-in clinic at the local hospital. Sprains are usually characterized by pain around the affected area and some bruising or swelling. In this case, have the child rest the affected area, but if swelling exists, then apply an ice pack to help to reduce the swelling.

    Recovery Position

    • Use the recovery position if the child is unconscious but still breathing and does not present any other life-threatening symptoms. It will ensure that her airway is clear and that she will not choke on any vomit. To place the child in the recovery position, move the child onto her side so that she is supported by one leg and one arm. Next, adjust her head so that it is tilted back and lift her chin slightly, to ensure that her airway is clear. If possible, then move the child onto her other side after 20 minutes, and monitor her breathing and pulse continuously.

    Epilepsy and Fitting

    • Fitting and epileptic seizures can range from a minor fit, which may involve blankness, to a major seizure, which may involve a loss of consciousness. Clear children away from the fitting child. If possible, break the child's fall, then place something soft under his head. Allow the seizure to run its course and when finished, place the child into the recovery position; call an ambulance if the child is unconscious for more than 10 minutes.

    Burns

    • The key thing to remember with burns is that the swifter your action, the less chance of the burn leaving a scar. Run the burned area under cold water for an extended period of time, depending on how severe it is -- but at least 10 minutes. To decrease the chance of infection, wrap the burned area in plastic wrap but don't wrap it too tightly, and remove any jewelry as well.

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