Notes From the Nurse February 2023

Snug Harbor Community School Notes From The Nurse
Posted on 02/15/2023
Image depicts a cartoon notebook on a blue background. On the notebook is written "Notes from the Nurse"

Notes from the Nurse

Mary Cross RN, BSN

Hello Snug Harbor Families! I cannot believe we are already in February! I have truly enjoyed getting to know your wonderful children over the past few months. As we continue into the winter months I just wanted to review some of the Quincy Public Schools health office policies.

Winter Viruses: We find ourselves in the thick of winter weather and with that brings a variety of winter viruses. Here is a helpful chart to help figure out which is which: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/infographics/it-cold-flu-or-covid-19

Covid Updates: If your child has tested positive for Covid-19 they must stay home and isolate for 5 days. On day 6 they may return to school with a mask through day 10. If they are unable to wear a mask please use a home test and if negative on day 6 they may return to school.

Please call my office to let me know of the positive test results.

Covid Tests: There are COVID home tests in the health office if you would like some, they expire in March. Just send me an email and I can send them home with your child.

Cold Weather Ready? Now that the temperature has fallen be sure to send your child to school in appropriate clothing. If your child needs a winter coat please contact the office and we will be happy to provide one for your child.

Absences: If your child is absent, it is important that you call the main office each day and provide a reason for their absence.

Too Sick For School?

A child, who feels very ill, is too uncomfortable to learn. Your child cannot attend school when experiencing the following:

  • A fever, 99.6 degrees or higher, within 24 hours of school. Please do not give your child medication in the morning for an elevated temperature and then send them to school. A fever signifies illness and should be treated as such with rest, fluids and Tylenol.

  • Vomiting or loose stools within 24 hours of school.

  • A cough that keeps your child awake, is painful or excessive and uncontrolled.

  • A sore throat for 24 hours, especially with swollen glands or fever. If your child has been diagnosed with strep throat, they must remain home for at least 24 hours after they start antibiotic treatment.

  • A suspicious rash or eye drainage should be evaluated by your child's doctor before coming to school.

Screenings: We have finished the majority of our state-mandated health screenings and I have sent home notices to students who require further evaluation. Please return paperwork when your child is evaluated.

Immunizations: All students PK-12 must be fully immunized. Failure to do so will result in exclusion from school. Please provide the school nurse with updated paperwork and an immunization record each time your child has a Physical Exam.

Medications During The School Day: Students requiring medication while in school must have a signed doctor's order from his/her physician for each new school year along with documented parental consent. The medication must be brought to school in the original prescription bottle. If the decision is made to stop administration in school, a letter from the doctor and parent is required.

Snacks: Please remember to send your child to school with a snack, lunch is provided by the school but morning snacks are not always available.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns!