School Nurse
A Message from the School Nurse Meg Belding, RN
The physical and mental health and wellness of our students is a primary interest at The Calais School. A Registered Nurse, either me or an occasional substitute, is on site at all times during the normal school day.
Since over half of our student’s take prescribed medications either at home or in school; the Nurse plays a crucial role in both the delivery of prescribed medications and/or the monitoring of reactions to those provided at home. The Nurse maintains a schedule of student appointments for the administration of prescribed dosages at specific times of the day. Medications including inhalers for asthma are provided by the parents and maintained in a locked cabinet. They are only administered to the student by the Nurse following the prescribed instructions.
Of equal importance is my role in monitoring reactions to and effectiveness of home administered medications, when known. The Nurse works with parents to ensure the stability and well-being of each student and, with their permission, may consult with the family or school physician.
In addition to medications, the Nurse provides attention and TLC to the day-to-day issues that young people face: the child coming down with an illness, scratches, nose bleeds, and the occasional twisted ankle. Our nursing facilities include a separate rest area with a couch and adjacent restroom to offer privacy as the student recovers or waits for a parent to pick them up.
My role includes the monitoring of immunizations and health care records according to the requirements and laws of the State of New Jersey. I also monitor developing medical issues of concern to the School, teachers, and parents. This information is conveyed to the administration and teachers and often influences School policy. It is also available to parents through flyers sent home as well as postings on The Calais School website.
While I am always happy to listen to the medical concerns of our students’ parents, it is always important to remember to consult with your pediatric or personal physicians for definitive answers.
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Important Medical Message from the School Nurse
Flu Season is Here!
The following recommendations have been received from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) as the fall and winter flu season approaches:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. If you don't have a tissue, cough into your elbow.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands sanitizers are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs can spread that way.
- Stay home if you get sick. The CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school, and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
- Use disinfectants on surfaces, as directed, to help prevent the spread of the influenza virus. Germs can spread when a person touches an infected surface and then touches their own eyes, mouth or nose.
Please ask your doctor about the seasonal flu vaccine and the H1N1 vaccine. The seasonal flu vaccine is available now and the H1N1 is targeted to be available by October.
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