School Nurse

A Message from the School Nurse Meg Moutos, 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 a 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. 

Important Medical Message from the School Nurse

What is MRSA?

MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphlococcus aureus) is a bacterium that has been around for a long time.  It is most prominent in hospitals and nursing homes.  Recently there have been outbreaks of it in community setting such as schools.  Because it is resistant to certain antibiotics, it is wise be aware of its signs and symptoms.

MRSA is not spread through the air but through skin to skin contact.

In most instances, MRSA will cause a skin infection therefore one should report to their doctor if they develop a pimple that looks infected, hurts and is red, raised, or containing white pus.

MRSA can also lead to pneumonia and blood infections with symptoms of fever and chills with a cough and congestion.

There are precautions that one can take to limit their chances of contracting MRSA.  The number one defense is proper hand washing.  WASH YOUR HANDS FREQUENTLY!

For proper hand washing you want to:
1. Get a good lather of soap on your hands;
2. Use warm water;
3. Rub vigorously to get the soap into the fingernails and cracks of your hands;
4. Wash long enough (say the alphabet while washing);
5. If in a public facility, turn off faucets with the paper towel;
6. Open the bathroom door with the paper towel and discard afterwards.

Other Hygienic precautions one can take are:
1. Do not share personal care items such as razors, bar of soap, cosmetics or towels;
2. If participating in athletics, do not share clothing or sports gear with team mates if it has not been properly laundered.