Health Services 2012-13

From the Nurse's Desk, Nurse Rosario

Health matters. That's why I am here to help provide care, information and a safe place to learn, study, play and grow. On this page, you will learn about health services offered through BBCPS, important health news/alerts for our community, and other resources to help our school community be a healthy place.

School Health Services:

Children are so special, and must be handled with care. It is during these formative years of their lives when they learn the importance of wellness and good hygiene. I have a passion for not only caring for children, but for also being that person they come to for advice. Every student needs an individual they can talk to, or come to when they are not feeling well.

As a School Nurse, I attend to the physical, mental and emotional needs of our students.  I care for health necessities of the children and staff, through administering medical treatment, providing health education, identifying problems in student health development and serving as a resource person to the school in health instruction. In addition, I serve as a liaison between the home and the school, supporting parents in the process of caring for the health of their child.  

Each year BBCPS offers dental, vision and hearing screening. Scoliosis screening is also offered. The school nurse is available for consultation about any health concerns and is able to assist with health referrals. For parents who qualify, vouchers for eyeglasses may also be provided.

Health News/Alerts:

• West Nile Virus alert by the Cambridge Public Health Department 
• Childhood Obesity, More Than Trippled in the Past 30 Years

Other Health Resources:

Prevenring the Flu

The flu is a contagious disease that is very serious. It can lead to temporary illness, hospitalization and even death. Every child will come in contact with someone who has the flu so it is important that you are educated about how to help prevent illness. Here is some useful information shared through the Center for Disease Control.
 
Get a flu vaccination: All students and staff members should be vaccinated against the flu when vaccine is available. This is usually between November and December, and available at your local clinic. 

If your child is not feeling well, they should not come to school. If your child has a temperature higher than 100 degrees, body aches, and extreme sleepiness or is coughing or vomiting, you need to keep him home until he is free of those symptoms for 24 hours. If he's not really sick, but something seems off, let the school nurse know and ask her to monitor your child.

Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.

For more information about preventing and treating the flu virus, click below:

Preventing the Flu

Frequently Asked Flu Questions