Students requiring the use of crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, or other ambulatory devices are to report to the school nurse upon their return to school following an injury or surgical procedure.
Specific orders are needed from the medical provider regarding the use of mobility aids in school. The orders must include the following:
-A statement from the medical provider that the student be allowed to use the mobility aid at school
-The diagnosis/reason the student needs to use the mobility device
-A statement of how long the student is anticipated to require the mobility device
-The anticipated length of time the student is to be excused from PE, recess, or sports activities
Students must understand the proper use of their crutches, walkers, or wheelchairs prior to returning to school.
-The school nurse will observe and assess the student’s competency in using the mobility device to determine proper and safe use within the boundaries of the school: stairs, hallways, school entrances, floors, etc.
The school nurse will review the student's crutch/walker usage within the school building and will observe the student to determine that they know how to safely navigate the hallways. Safety will be stressed including stairs, hallways, school entrances, floors, etc.
Use of elevators will be granted when the necessary physician documentation is provided.
All students must be cleared by their medical provider to resume normal activities and provide appropriate documentation to the school.
Additional accommodations such as ice and elevation may be provided. Further care measures including medications can be administered according to medical provider orders and parent permission.
Copies of the medical provider’s note will be shared with Physical Education teachers, the principal, the attendance office, and other teachers as applicable.