Childhood Illnesses: A School Nurse's Handbook

Published 06/01/23 Written by Ingenuity & Solutions | Last updated on June 01, 2023

Childhood Illnesses

As a school nurse, you play a critical role in keeping children healthy and safe. You are the first line of defense against common childhood illnesses that can quickly spread throughout a school. Recognizing and addressing these illnesses quickly is essential to prevent them from escalating into more serious health issues. This handbook will provide you with the knowledge and tools you need to recognize and address common childhood illnesses effectively.

What are the most common childhood illnesses?

The most common childhood illnesses include:

  • Common cold
  • Influenza (flu)
  • Gastroenteritis (stomach flu)
  • Hand, foot, and mouth disease
  • Head lice
  • Pinkeye (conjunctivitis)
  • Strep throat
  • Chickenpox
  • Measles
  • Mumps

How can I prevent the spread of illnesses in the school?

Preventing the spread of illnesses in the school is crucial to maintaining a healthy environment for students and staff. Some ways to prevent the spread of illnesses include:

  • Encouraging students and staff to wash their hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
  • Teaching students to cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
  • Disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs and desks
  • Encouraging sick students and staff to stay home until they are no longer contagious
  • Encouraging students and staff to get vaccinated

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What should I do if a student shows symptoms of an illness?

If a student shows symptoms of an illness, it is essential to take action quickly to prevent the illness from spreading. Some steps you can take include:

  • Isolating the student to prevent them from coming into contact with other students
  • Providing the student with a mask to wear
  • Encouraging the student to cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
  • Encouraging the student to wash their hands frequently
  • Notifying the student's parents and encouraging them to seek medical attention
  • Disinfecting the area where the student was located

How can I educate students and staff about illness prevention?

Educating students and staff about illness prevention is crucial to maintaining a healthy school environment. Some ways to educate students and staff include:

  • Providing information on illness prevention through posters, flyers, and newsletters
  • Teaching proper handwashing techniques
  • Encouraging students and staff to stay home when they are sick
  • Encouraging students and staff to get vaccinated
  • Providing information on the symptoms of common childhood illnesses

Recognizing and addressing common childhood illnesses is essential to maintaining a healthy school environment. As a school nurse, you play a critical role in preventing the spread of illnesses and keeping students and staff healthy. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this handbook, you can effectively recognize and address common childhood illnesses, preventing them from escalating into more serious health issues. Remember, prevention is key, so educate students and staff about illness prevention, and take action quickly when a student shows symptoms of an illness.

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