Policy and Procedure Manual

The

Policies and Procedures

of

The Cherokee High School

 

Table of Contents

 

Health and Medical Division
Cherokee School Clinics

SUBJECT: Abuse and Neglect Reporting

PURPOSE: Compliance with North Carolina General Statutes on Child Abuse and Neglect (7A-157).

STAFF GOVERNED BY THIS POLICY: School Nursing Staff

EFFECTIVE DATE: July 2000

DATE REVIEWED OR REVISED: November 5, 2003

DISTRIBUTION: Nursing Staff

POLICY:

Any member of the Cherokee High School Nursing Staff that has cause to suspect child abuse or neglect (as defined by NCGS 7A-157) should immediately notify the following: (1) School Principal (2) Director of Department of Social Services in the county where the juvenile resides (3) Medical Supervisor

PROCEDURE:
(1) The report can be made orally, by telephone, or in writing.
If a written report is made or a follow-up report is sent to the school by DSS, the original report will be kept in a confidential file in the office of the school principal and a copy of the report will be filed with the school nurse.

 

 

Health and Medical Division
Cherokee School Clinics
Nurse/Prevention Specialist

SUBJECT: Biohazard Waste Removal

PURPOSE: To define the process for biohazard waste removal from the High School clinic.

STAFF GOVERNED BY THIS POLICY: CHS Nursing Staff

EFFECTIVE DATE: July 2000

DATE REVIEWED OR REVISED: November 5, 2003

DISTRIBUTION: Nursing Staff

POLICY:

The Cherokee High School Clinic has a daily need for bio-hazardous materials to be disposed of properly.

PROCEDURE:

  1. All needles are to be disposed of in needle boxes.
  2. When needle boxes are 2/3 full they will be closed and a new one started.
  3. Full needle boxes will be taken to the Qualla Youth Health Center for proper disposal.
  4. Red bio-hazard bags should be used for disposal of all materials containing body fluids.
    Red bio-hazard bags will be taken to the Qualla Youth Health Center and placed in the waste container to be picked up by the Safewaste Company.

 

 

Health and Medical Division
Cherokee School Clinics

SUBJECT: Communicable Disease Prevention and Control

PURPOSE: (1) To insure that preventative measures are in place to protect the health status of all students and staff. (2) To provide for immediate care of students or staff who develop a potentially communicable illness.

STAFF GOVERNED BY THIS POLICY: School Nursing Staff

EFFECTIVE DATE: July 2000

DATE REVIEWED OR REVISED: November 5, 2003

DISTRIBUTION: Nursing Staff

POLICY:

Students are excluded from school in cases of communicable diseases.

PROCEDURE:

When a student is suspected of having one of the following communicable diseases, it is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to take the child to the local health department, treatment facility (Cherokee Indian Hospital or Qualla Youth Health Center), or family physician for verification and treatment before that student can return to school.

  1. Chicken Pox: Student is excluded for at least five (5) days after the rash appears or until all blisters have formed scabs.
  2. Measles (Rubella/Rubella): Student is excluded until physician’s approval is given and student is no longer contagious.
  3. Pediculosis (Head Lice): Student is excluded until:
    1. Pediculosis shampoo is completed and all nits have been removed in accordance with the CISD “NO NIT” policy.
    2. The parent or guardian must return with the Elementary School Students to the school nurse for clearance to return to class. Middle School and High School students report to the school nurse for clearance.
  4. Scabies: Student is excluded until one (1) treatment with prescription medication for 12 to 24 hours is completed.
  5. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Student is excluded if any of the following are present:
    1. Eye(s) is (are) severely red and somewhat swollen.
    2. There is a yellow (purulent) discharge.
    3. Child excessively rubs the itching eye(s).
    4. Condition lasts more than three (3) days.
    5. There is an epidemic in the school or it appears that cases are being transmitted from one student to another. *Student is allowed to return to school on approval of physician.
  6. Impetigo: Student is excluded from school if he has more than three to four sores and until seen by a physician and treated with a prescription antibiotic for 24 hours.
  7. Streptococcal and Staphylococcal Infections: Student is excluded from school until treated with a prescription antibiotic for 24 hours.

 

 

Health and Medical Division
Cherokee School Clinics

SUBJECT: Confidentiality of Student Records

PURPOSE: To define the policy for confidentiality at the CMS/CHS clinic

STAFF GOVERNED BY THIS POLICY: CHS nursing staff

EFFECTIVE DATE:

DATE REVIEWED OR REVISED: November 2003

DISTRIBUTION: Nursing Staff

POLICY:

The clinic located on the campus of the Cherokee Central Schools will adhere to the guidelines of the Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 in accordance with Cherokee Health and Delivery System.

PROCEDURE:

  1. All reasonable precautions will be taken to assure accuracy and confidentiality in these areas of student documentation:
    1. Individualized health care plans
    2. Nursing Diagnosis
    3. Nursing Interventions
    4. Outcomes and Evaluations
    5. Nursing Descriptions supporting the educational process
  2. All student records containing personally identifiable information will be kept in locked file cabinets located in the Clinic itself or in the student file located in the office area.
  3. Medical records will continue to be stored on the High School campus according to federal guidelines of 7 yrs. After students services are complete.
  4. Release of these records will follows these guidelines:
    1. Require written parental consent
    2. Consent of student over the age of 18
    3. Staff identified by title on a need to know basis
    4. When notification is essential to the life or health of a minor
  5. Student information will not be discussed by staff unless in a professional setting as designated in the policy manual of Cherokee Central Schools.
  6. The signed confidentiality agreement will be maintained in the personnel file of all Tribal employees.

 

 

 

Health and Medical Division
Cherokee School Clinics

SUBJECT: Compliance with Senate Bill 911: Care of school children with Diabetes

PURPOSE: Federal Law requires that every public school provide adequate services for students with all chronic illnesses.

STAFF GOVERNED BY THIS POLICY: CHS Nursing Staff/ Designated School Personnel.

EFFECTIVE DATE:

DATE REVIEWED OR REVISED: November 2003

DISTRIBUTION: Nursing Staff

POLICY:

The Cherokee Independent School System will have a Registered Nurse available for assessment, care planning, and on- going evaluation of our students with Diabetes.

PROCEDURE:

  1. The school nurse should develop a diabetes Care Plan with the parent/ guardian.
  2. The nurse will develop an Emergency Care Plan on all Diabetic students
  3. A staff development on Diabetes will be made available for all school personnel.
  4. At least two school personnel on each campus should receive a more extensive training in diabetes care and emergencies.
  5. Students should have immediate access to all diabetic supplies and treatment
  6. Diabetic students in middle school or high school should be able to implement their diabetes care at school to the extent that is appropriate for the student development and his or her experience with diabetes.
  7. The school nurse will continue to update and monitor students’ progress through communication with the family, health care tem, and school personnel to ensure a safe learning environment.

 

 

 

Health and Medical Division
Cherokee School Clinics

SUBJECT: Emergency Care for Injury and Sudden Illness

PURPOSE: Injuries and illness are common occurrences in the school-age population. The school has the responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of students during the hours of school attendance, while on school property and during school sponsored activities. A copy of Cherokee Central School District Policies is available for review in the school office. All clinic policies are written with these policies in mind.

STAFF GOVERNED BY THIS POLICY: School Nursing Staff

EFFECTIVE DATE: July 2000

DATE REVIEWED OR REVISED: November 05, 2003

DISTRIBUTION: Nursing Staff

POLICY:

Emergency information will be kept on every student (see attached medical consent form). The information will be updated on an annual basis and will be kept on file in the school clinic and/or school office.

PROCEDURE:

  1. Assess the student for nature of injury and level of consciousness.
  2. ) Refer to North Carolina School Health Program Manual for specific injuries. Section E 4.30 (First Aid)
  3. Notify the parent/ guardian to pick up their child at school or to meet the child at the hospital.
  4. If the parent/ guardian cannot be reached, the student will be transported per our local EMS to the hospital emergency room. Efforts to notify the parent/guardian will continue until they are completed. A school staff designee will remain with the student until a family member arrives to accept responsibility for the student.
  5. The school nurse will inform the Principal immediately of any serious injuries suffered by students. A report of the student injury will be filed in the school clinic. (See attached accident form).

 

 

 

Health and Medical Division
Cherokee School Clinics

SUBJECT: Glucagon Emergency Kit

PURPOSE: To Define the Policy and Procedure for Administering Emergency Glucagon. .

STAFF GOVERNED BY THIS POLICY: High School Nursing Staff and/or designated school personnel

EFFECTIVE DATE:

DATE REVIEWED OR REVISED: November 2003

DISTRIBUTION: Nursing Staff

POLICY:

Glucagon is an emergency drug that is given as a shot to raise the blood level. It should be given in case of a severe insulin reaction or coma.

PROCEDURE:

Glucagon should not be mixed until just before it is to be given.

  1. To prepare glucagons for injection
    1. Remove the flip off seal from the bottle of glucagon. Wipe rubber stopper on bottle with an alcohol swab.
    2. Remove the needle protector from the syringe, and inject the entire contents of the syringe into the bottle of glucagon.
    3. Remove syringe. Shake bottle gently until the glucagons dissolves and the solution becomes clear. Glucagon should not be used unless the solution is clear and of water like consistency. Inject glucagon immediately after mixing.
  2. To inject glucagon: (use same technique as for injection of insulin)
    1. Using the same syringe, withdraw all of the solution (1mg mark on syringe) from the bottle. (If the dose is to be given to a small child and if a doctor recommends it, withdraw ½ of the solution from the bottle [0.5 mg mark on the syringe].)
    2. Cleanse injection site on buttock, arm, or thigh with alcohol swab.
    3. Insert the needle into the soft tissue at the cleansed injection site, and injected all the glucagons solution. There is no danger of overdose. Apply light pressure at the injection site, as you withdraw the needle.
    4. Turn the patient on his or her side. When an unconscious person awakens, he or she may vomit. Turning the patient on his or her side will prevent choking.
    5. Feed the patient as soon as he or she awakens and is able to swallow. Give the patient a fast-acting source of sugar (such as soft drink or orange juice) and a longer- acting source of sugar (such as crackers and cheese or a meat sandwich.) If the patient does not awaken within 15 minutes give another dose of glucagons and inform a doctor immediately.


    Check the expiration date on your emergency kit regularly. Replace it before it expires.

 

Health and Medical Division
Cherokee School Clinics

SUBJECT: Handling Body Fluids

PURPOSE: To prevent the spread of infection to students, school personnel, and to themselves.

STAFF GOVERNED BY THIS POLICY: CHS Nursing Staff

EFFECTIVE DATE:

DATE REVIEWED OR REVISED: November 2003

DISTRIBUTION: Nursing Staff

POLICY:

All blood and body fluid spills should be regarded as potentially infectious.

PROCEDURE:

  1. Disposable gloves should be worn when cleaning up blood, feces, vomitus, and urine.
  2. Hands should be washed thoroughly as soon as it is practical following exposure to the above body fluids. Nasal or other respiratory secretions should also be included. Proper hand washing requires the use of soap and vigorous washing under a stream of running warm water for at least 10 seconds.
  3. Wiping of body fluids may be done with paper towels. All disposable clean up materials should be placed in a sealed bio-hazard bag for discarding.
  4. Hard surfaces like desks, walls, and floors should be washed with one of the following:
    1. Ethyl or isopropyl alcohol (70 percent solution)
    2. Phenolic germicidal agent (follow the product label)
    3. Household bleach diluted 1:10 with water

 

 

 

Health and Medical Division
Cherokee School Clinics

SUBJECT: Hand Washing

PURPOSE: To protect employees and students against contamination and cross infection

STAFF GOVERNED BY THIS POLICY: CHS Nursing Staff

EFFECTIVE DATE: November 2003

DATE REVIEWED OR REVISED:

DISTRIBUTION: Nursing Staff

POLICY:

The Cherokee High School Clinic is a medical clinic and in the course of the office day will see students one after another. To prevent spread of infectious disease and cross contamination between students, the staff will wash his or her hands after every student contact.

PROCEDURE:

Hand washing is the most effective technique for preventing the spread of infection. Cleansing hands after restroom visits, handling body secretions, and giving care to the student and after any procedure.

  1. Turn on water to comfortable temperature.
  2. Moisten hands with water and apply heavy lather of soap.
  3. Scrub well for 10- 15 seconds.
  4. Pay particular attention to spaces between fingers, around nail bed, and under fingernails.
  5. Rinse well under running water.
  6. Dry hands with paper towels.
  7. Turn off faucet, using paper towels.
  8. Discard paper towel.
  9. Use of alcohol gel is permitted between student visits.


 

Health and Medical Division
Cherokee School Clinics

SUBJECT: Hearing Screens

PURPOSE: The State Department of Public Instruction Guidelines propose hearing screens as one of the recommended procedures used to identify children with handicapping conditions in need of special education and/or related services as required by Public Law 94-142.

STAFF GOVERNED BY THIS POLICY: School Nursing Staff

EFFECTIVE DATE: July 2000

DATE REVIEWED OR REVISED: November 05, 2003

DISTRIBUTION: Nursing Staff

POLICY:

As recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the State of NC, hearing screens will be done on the following grades: All Elementary School age children, grades 7th, 9th, 11th, and all exceptional students or when indicated.

PROCEDURE:

  1. All hearing screens will be coordinated by the school nurse and the audiologist with each new school year.
  2. All screening results will be maintained as part of the school health record.


All referrals and follow-ups will be completed by the audiologist.

 

 

 

Health and Medical Division
Cherokee School Clinics
Nurse/Prevention Specialist

SUBJECT: Immunizations

PURPOSE: To assist CMS/CHS to be in compliance with NCGS 130A (152 through 157)

STAFF GOVERNED BY THIS POLICY: CHS Nursing Staff

EFFECTIVE DATE: July 2000

DATE REVIEWED OR REVISED: November 2003

DISTRIBUTION: Nursing Staff

POLICY:

All students will have a complete immunization record on file within 30 days after the first day of attendance.


PROCEDURE:

  1. Student records including immunizations will be transferred from Cherokee Elementary for all students entering the 7th grade at Cherokee Middle School
  2. The school counselor will request in writing the immunization records of all
    new students along with their school records
  3. The school nurse will be informed of all new student admissions and
    presented with a copy of the immunizations records by the school counselor
  4. The school nurse will contact the parent/ guardian if immunization records
    are in complete
  5. Medical exemptions from immunizations by a physician should be presented in writing in compliance with NCGS 130A.

 

 

 

Health and Medical Division
Cherokee School Clinics

SUBJECT: Medication Administration Emergency Epinephrine

PURPOSE: Immediate action for life-threatening allergic reaction or anaphylaxis

STAFF GOVERNED BY THIS POLICY: CHS Nursing Staff and/or designated school personnel

EFFECTIVE DATE:

DATE REVIEWED OR REVISED: November 2003

DISTRIBUTION: Nursing Staff

POLICY:

Epinephrine (Adrenalin) may be administered by injection in case of extreme medical emergency/ CIH physician, School nurse standing orders or private physician orders.

PROCEDURE:

For administering Epinephrine

  1. Follow recommended dosage schedule (as prescribed by physician) by using either pre-filled Epinephrine 2 dose syringe or Epi- pen.
  2. Inject the adrenalin syringe into the student’s upper arm or follow the directions accompanying the Epi- pen.
  3. Notify the parent or guardian and, if necessary, Emergency Medical Services, informing them of the reaction and the medication and the time given.
  4. If the student feels faint, is, pale, has difficulty breathing, or develops hives, and additional dose of adrenalin from the same syringe can be given. There must, however, be a 15-minute interval between the first and second doses.

Medication side effects include:

  1. Increase in heart rate (normal reaction)
  2. Palpitation, restlessness, tenseness, anxiety (transient and minor side effects)


An Emergency Action or Care Plan should be written for each student who requires an Epi- pen or similar emergency equipment at school.

 

 

 

Health and Medical Division
Cherokee School Clinics

SUBJECT: Medication Administration: Prescription and Non-Prescription

PURPOSE: To define the policy and procedure for administering and securing medications at school.

STAFF GOVERNED BY THIS POLICY: School Nursing Staff

EFFECTIVE DATE: July 2000

DATE REVIEWED OR REVISED: November 05, 2003

DISTRIBUTION: Nursing Staff

POLICY:

To meet the needs of students who require medication during school hours to maintain and support their continued presence in school.

PROCEDURE:

  1. Parents can either come to school and administer medications to their child as prescribed or provide a written/oral request for school personnel to administer the OTC or physician prescribed medication.
  2. Prescription and Over-The-Counter medication must be brought to the nurse’s office for dispensing.
  3. The medication should be in the original container with parent/guardian note that provides the following information: name of child, name of medication, date prescribed, dosage, how and when the medication is to be given, special instructions about the child or the medication, how long the medication is to be given at school, and the name of the health care provider.
  4. The school nurse will dispense all medication. If the school nurse is not available, a designated school representative (trained and supervised by the school nurse and with physician approval) will administer and document the medication.
  5. Proper storage space will be provided to ensure that all medications are secure. Some medications cannot be locked, such as those that students need to carry with them at all times (asthma inhalers). Elementary school student asthma inhalers may be kept in the classroom and administered by teacher prior to physical activity. Security for these medications must be planned on an individual basis.
  6. Records of all medication administered at school should be maintained. All written medical logs and records should be on file as long as the student is enrolled in the school system plus three (3) years past the time the child reaches age 18. (See attached medication records)
  7. Parent information regarding school policy on medication should be provided through student handbook, individual letters and forms as needed.

Some medications may be given by the school nurse in accordance with the School Nurse Standing Orders per physician / medical director.

 

 

 

Health and Medical Division
Cherokee School Clinics

SUBJECT: Medication Errors at School

PURPOSE: To define what action to take if mistakes or errors happen when giving medication at school.

STAFF GOVERNED BY THIS POLICY: CHS Nursing Staff

EFFECTIVE DATE: 2003 – 2004 school year

DATE REVIEWED OR REVISED: March, 2004

DISTRIBUTION: Nursing Staff

POLICY:

Any medication error should be reported and documented promptly.

PROCEDURE:

  1. Medication Administration Incident Reports should be filled out (see enclosed copy). (2) The following persons should be notified:
    1. Nursing Supervisor
    2. Principal
    3. Parent
    4. Physician (if applicable)


Appropriate action will be taken to ensure that medication is safely administered at school.

 

 

 

Health and Medical Division
Cherokee School Clinics

SUBJECT: Pregnancy Tests

PURPOSE: To define the policy and procedure for pregnancy tests.

STAFF GOVERNED BY THIS POLICY: CHS Nursing Staff

EFFECTIVE DATE: July 2000

DATE REVIEWED OR REVISED: November 5, 2003

DISTRIBUTION: Nursing Staff

POLICY:

Whereas the CMS/CHS clinic serves the adolescent population, which is considered high risk for teen pregnancy, confidential testing is available.

PROCEDURE:

  1. If a student presents at the CMS/CHS clinic and requests a pregnancy test, or if the Nursing staff deems necessary, one will be performed.
  2. Pending the results of the test, the following options will be available.
    1. Negative Results:
      1. The Nursing staff will provide education/information on teen sexuality, pregnancy prevention, STD awareness, and reproductive health as per individual student needs. Abstinence will be stressed.
      2. The student will be encouraged to visit the Qualla Youth Health Center for a pelvic/pap exam and information on birth control.
    2. Positive Results:
      1. With the student’s consent, an appointment will be made at the Qualla Youth Health Center for Coordination of continued services

 

 

 

Health and Medical Division
Cherokee School Clinics

SUBJECT: Professional Attire

PURPOSE: Define Acceptable Clothing for Professional who came in direct contact with patients and customers

STAFF GOVERNED BY THIS POLICY: All HMD Staff

EFFECTIVE DATE: August 27, 2001

DATED REVIEWED OR REVISED: March 31,2004

DISTRIBUTION: All HMD Employees

TRIBAL POLICY:


4.16 Personal Appearance
Dress, grooming, and personal cleanliness contribute to the professional image presented to customers, patients, and colleagues.
While conducting Tribal business, employees are expected to present a clean, neat and professional business- like appearance. They should dress according to the requirements of their position as determined by the appropriate supervisor or safety officer.

HMD POLICY:

  1. Employees involved in direct patient/ client care are required to dress in
    professional attire and present a professional appearance, regardless of the circumstances*.
    1. Social activities are not exceptions if you are providing direct patient care during that day. You may, however, change clothes after patients are no longer in the facility if social or physical activities are planned.
    2. Some employees are required to wear uniforms. (EMS, Home Health, Clinics)
  2. Administration understands that inclement weather will allows variations in dress code policy.

* NOTE: Administration does not consider the following to be professional, business like attire; jeans, pants that fall below the waste line with any portion of the midriff showing, shorts, sweat pants, overalls, short skirts, T- shirts, cropped pants higher than mid- calf, flip flops, shirts with sleeves cut off, cargo pants


 

Health and Medical Division
Cherokee School Clinics

SUBJECT: Students with Special Needs

PURPOSE: To comply with federal and state laws and regulations which ensure that students with special needs have access to a free appropriate education.

STAFF GOVERNED BY THIS POLICY: CHS Nursing Staff

EFFECTIVE DATE:

DATE REVIEWED OR REVISED: `Nov. 2003

DISTRIBUTION: Nursing Staff

POLICY:

To meet the special health care needs of students in the school setting.

PROCEDURE:

  1. All students with special health care needs shall be referred to the school nurse.
  2. The nurse will develop a plan of care that is needed to safely care for the student at school. This plan will be based upon consultation with the student’s medical care provider, parents/guardian, and the student when applicable.
  3. The school nurse will be responsible for teaching and monitoring procedures performed and for evaluating the student’s response to care.
  4. Students shall be instructed in self care when appropriate to do so.
  5. School personnel shall be made aware of the existence of health problems for purposes of emergency care as well as for daily programming.
  6. The school shall follow the physicians’ written requests for health care or limited activities for students.
  7. The school nurse shall assist in coordinating services with the health care provider, students, family, and school.


Health and Medical Division
Cherokee School Clinics

SUBJECT: Standing orders for RN

PURPOSE: To define standing orders for the RN in the school setting

STAFF GOVERNED BY THIS POLICY: School Nursing Staff

EFFECTIVE DATE: July 2000

DATE REVIEWED OR REVISED: November 05, 2003

DISTRIBUTION: Nursing Staff

POLICY:

In accordance with the North Carolina State Board of Nursing, the staff RN may follow a set of standing orders that are written and signed by the Medical Director.

PROCEDURE:

  1. A set of standing orders will be written and updated annually for the school nurse to follow.
  2. See attached copy of current standing orders.
  3. The RN may also receive verbal/ telephone orders from a Medical Doctor or mid-level provider.
  4. The RN may only follow standing orders when functioning in the school setting.

 

 

Health and Medical Division
Cherokee School Clinics
Nurse/Prevention Specialist

SUBJECT: Throat Culture/ Rapid Step

PURPOSE: To define the purpose for performing throat cultures

STAFF GOVERNED BY THIS POLICY: CHS Nursing Staff

EFFECTIVE DATE: July 2000

DATE REVIEWED OR REVISED: November 2003

DISTRIBUTION: Nursing Staff

POLICY:

The students at the CMS/CHS will receive a throat culture/ rapid strep when presenting at the clinic with signs and symptoms of a possible upper respirtory infection

PROCEDURE:

  1. The student that presents at the CMS/CHS clinic with a sore throat and temperature of 100.5 cent and /or other upper respiratory signs will be given a rapid strep throat culture. Cultures can also be done on a parents’ request or at the nurse’s discretion.
  2. The nurse will follow the principles of the procedure enclosed in the QuickVue+ Strep A test kit.
  3. If the rapid strep is negative and the student has visible pockets of pus or exudates on the tonsils the student will be referred to the Qualla Youth Health Center or other treatment facility for a 24-hour throat culture.
  4. If the test is positive the Qualla Youth Health Center will be called for the mid-level provider to order the appropriate medication. The parent will also be notified and the student will be sent home until treated with an antibiotic for 24 hours.
  5. If the test is positive and there is no mid-level provider at the Qualla Youth Health Center the procedure will be: (1) Do a PCC to include the following information: positive strep A culture, student weight and temperature and any known allergies that the student may have. (2) The parent should be instructed to take the PCC to the Cherokee Indian Hospital, obtain a face-sheet, and then take both to the clinic receptionist.
  6. The nurse will follow up on the student’s treatment.

 

Health and Medical Division
Cherokee School Clinics

SUBJECT: Vision Screens

PURPOSE: To identify possible vision problems that require professional care.

STAFF GOVERNED BY THIS POLICY: School Nursing Staff

EFFECTIVE DATE: July 2000

DATE REVIEWED OR REVISED: November 05, 2003

DISTRIBUTION: Nursing Staff

POLICY:

As recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the State of NC, vision screens will be done on the following grades: All elementary school age children, grades 7th, 9th, 11th, and all exceptional students or when indicated.

PROCEDURE:

  1. Vision screens will be completed each new school year.
  2. The school nurse will implement the vision conservation program.
  3. At least two certified screeners (Prevent Blindness of NC) should be present to maintain and utilize standardized guidelines for screening throughout the State.
  4. All vision results will be maintained as part of the school health record. A copy will be sent to Prevent Blindness of NC.
  5. All students who fail to meet the guidelines as outlined by Prevent Blindness of NC will have a referral (see sample form) sent to their parent.

The school nurse will follow up on all vision referrals.