Nurse
Jennie Gilbert
School Nurse
603-632-4231
FAQ
When should I keep my child home from school?
- A fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Suspected bacterial or viral infection/disease (ex: strep throat, conjunctivitis (pink eye), impetigo, chicken pox)
- The first 24 hours of antibiotic treatment
- Any illness that would prevent the student from being able to participate comfortably in school activities (Excessive coughing, excessive fatigue, nausea, etc.)
My child threw up last night but feels fine today. Can they come to school?
No. Students have to wait 24 hours after the last time they vomit, had diarrhea, or had a fever before returning to school.
My child woke up with a headache. Can I give them medicine and send them to school?
Yes, but please let the school nurse know what medicine you gave them and the time. Also, be sure to check their temperature before you give the medication. A headache can sometimes be a symptom of a bigger illness.
My child has just started on a new medication. Can they bring it to school and take it on their own?
No. Any medication at school has to be given by the school nurse or their sub. The medication should be brought to the office or to the nurse by an adult. Medication administration paperwork has to be completed by the student’s guardian.
My child went to the doctors/eye doctor/specialist. Do you need anything from that?
Yes. Any time you see a provider or specialist it is best to send in a copy of the visit to be sure we have the most up-to-date information on file here at the school.
My child woke up with crusty red eyes. Can they come to school?
No. This could be a pink eye and a Provider should assess the student’s eyes prior to the student coming to school. If antibiotics are started, they will need to be on them for a full 24 hrs. before returning to school. Example: If the student did not get their first eye drops until 1pm on Tuesday they can not come back to school until Thursday.
My child had a fever on Wednesday. At 7am on Wednesday I gave them Tylenol and they have not had a fever since. Can they go to school on Thursday?
No. Because they had a fever at 7am and you gave them Tylenol we don’t truly know when the fever ended. The 24hr fever free starts when any fever reducing medication wears off (6hrs after the medication is given). If they spike another fever the clock starts again.
Should I expect a call or email anytime my student comes to see you?
No. I do not call and email every parent every time I see their student. Oftentimes they come to see me for small things and I know you are all busy. I will notify you of any major accidents, and if you want to know every time your student comes to see me, send me an email and I will do my best to do that.
Most importantly communication is Key. The more I know about your child and what’s going on the better I can help them here at school. We want all students to be here at school and participate in all of the fun and learning. Keeping them home when they are sick helps the spread of sickness and allows them the rest, they need to get back to school.