Goals of the Office
"School Nursing is defined as a specialized practice of professional nursing that advances the well-being of, academic success and life-long achievement and health of students. To that end, school nurses facilitate positive student responses to normal development; promote health and safety including a healthy environment; intervene with actual and potential health problems; provide case management services; and actively collaborate with others to build student and family capacity for adaption, self-management, self-advocacy and learning". (National Association of School Nursing) The School nurse is a member of a unique discipline of professional nursing with a focus on community health and background of Medical-Surgical nursing, and is often the sole healthcare provider in an academic setting. (NASN)
The goal of the Health Office is to ensure that each student has a happy, healthy experience at Ridgewood Avenue School. Healthy children are better learners and your child’s health is important to his/her success .One function of the certified school nurse is to strengthen the educational process through improvement and promotion of student health so they will be equipped with the skills to become life long learners. Towards that end Ridgewood Avenue School has a number of health related requirements. Some of the ways this is accomplished are through the following.
1. Screenings that are done are: Vision and hearing which is done in grades 3 and 5. Height, weight and B/P screenings done yearly, with scoliosis’ screenings done in the 5th grade.
2. Administration of medication (see permission to receive medication)
3. Determining eligability of student attendance due to illness and injury
4. Injury, illness assessments and interventions, including first aid.
5. Health counseling as needed.
6. Educate school staff about health matters that may affect the students
7. Educating students regarding wellness including, getting a good night sleep, eating a healthy breakfast and come to school both physically and mentally prepared to work.
The school nurse works closely with teachers, administrators and support staff to ensure the overall well being of both our students and staff. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact me either by phone or email.