Resources
https://www.friscoisd.org/departments/health-services/home
HEALTH SCREENINGS
The following state-mandated screenings will be done during the first semester of school:
· Vision: Pre-K, Kindergartners, 1st, 3rd, 5th graders and students new to Frisco ISD- please make sure that glasses or contacts are worn day of screening!
· Hearing: Pre-K, Kindergartners, 1st, 3rd, 5th graders and students new to Frisco ISD
· Acanthosis Nigricans (screening involves looking at the back of a student’s neck): 1st, 3rd, 5th graders and students new to Frisco ISD
· Spinal Screening: 5th grade girls (a letter will be sent home prior to screening)
If there are any concerns based on screening results, parents will be notified in writing.
HOSP CLINIC'S CLOTHING SUPPLY
Often a child needs to change clothing at school for one reason or another: spilling food/liquids on themselves, falling into mud puddles, ripped clothing, etc. Because kids are kids, I have a supply of clothing in the Clinic for students' use as the needs arise. We've already had several generous families donate clothing to the Clinic so the shelves are not bare, but we can use more. If your child has outgrown shorts, or pants (especially knit clothing with elastic waists) and they're still in good condition, please consider donating them to the Clinic.
All clothing that is loaned to students is accompanied by a note from me requesting that the item be washed and returned to the Clinic to be used again.
I thank you in advance for any clothing you may be able to provide the Clinic!
BACK TO SCHOOL FAMILY CHECKLIST (click link to view publication)
Besides new notebooks, pencils, and backpacks, there are other ways you can help prepare your child for the beginning of school. Please take a moment to read this publication from the National Association of School Nurses (NASN) -- if you have any questions or suggestions, please let me know!
BACKPACK SAFETY
WHEN TO KEEP YOUR CHILD HOME FROM SCHOOL
Signs of severe illness, including fever, irritability, difficulty breathing, crying that doesn’t stop with the usual comforting, or extreme sleepiness.
Diarrhea or stools that contain blood or mucus.
Vomiting two or more times in 24 hours, unless a physician feels the cause of vomiting is not an infectious disease and the child is in no danger of becoming dehydrated. A child should have one or two meals without vomiting before returning to school. Your child may be sent home from school for vomiting one time.
Temperature of 100 degrees or above (must have temperature below 100 degrees for 24 hours before returning to school-without taking a fever reducing medication).
Questionable rash until a physician has determined the rash is not caused by an infectious disease.
Known communicable disease must be treated for the appropriate amount of time as directed by a physician.
Recommendation of a physician or school nurse.
HEAD LICE 101 (click link to view publication)
The topic of lice is not one that parents want to have with the school nurse. But, as they say, knowledge is power and with this knowledge, I hope this information answers any questions you may have about lice. I am providing NASN's information sheet about lice. Please contact me if you have any questions!
KIDS AND TIME SPENT ON ELECTRONIC DEVICES
What do I need to know about backpack safety?
Backpacks are a popular and practical way for children and teenagers to carry schoolbooks and supplies. When used correctly, backpacks can be a good way to carry the necessities of the school day. They are designed to distribute the weight of the load among some of the body's strongest muscles.
However, backpacks that are too heavy or are worn incorrectly can cause problems for children and teenagers. Improperly used backpacks may injure muscles and joints. This can lead to severe back, neck and shoulder pain, as well as posture problems. Share these guidelines to help your family use backpacks safely.
Choose the Right Backpack -- Look for the following:
Wide, padded shoulder straps — Narrow straps can dig into shoulders. This can cause pain and restrict circulation.
Two shoulder straps — Backpacks with one shoulder strap that runs across the body cannot distribute weight evenly.
Padded back — A padded back protects against sharp edges on objects inside the pack and increases comfort.
Waist strap — A waist strap can distribute the weight of a heavy load more evenly.
Lightweight backpack — The backpack itself should not add much weight to the load.
Rolling backpack — This type of backpack may be a good choice for students who must tote a heavy load. Remember that rolling backpacks still must be carried up stairs. They may be difficult to roll in snow.
To prevent injury when using a backpack, do the following:
Always use both shoulder straps. Slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain muscles. Wearing a backpack on one shoulder may increase curvature of the spine.
Tighten the straps so that the pack is close to the body. The straps should hold the pack two inches above the waist.
Pack light. The backpack should never weigh more than 10 to 20 percent of the student's total body weight.
Organize the backpack to use all of its compartments. Pack heavier items closest to the center of the back.
Stop often at school lockers, if possible. Do not carry all of the books needed for the day.
Bend using both knees, when you bend down. Do not bend over at the waist when wearing or lifting a heavy backpack.
Learn back-strengthening exercises to build up the muscles used to carry a backpack.
Ask Your Pediatrician for Advice
Parents also can help in the following ways:
Encourage your child or teenager to tell you about pain or discomfort that may be caused by a heavy backpack. Do not ignore any back pain in a child or teenager. Ask your pediatrician for advice.
Talk to the school about lightening the load. Be sure the school allows students to stop at their lockers throughout the day. Team up with other parents to encourage changes.
Consider buying a second set of textbooks for your student to keep at home.
