Nurse’s Nook

School Nurse: Ms. Jamie Shields, [email protected]

When Should I Keep My Child Home?

Please keep your child home or expect them to be sent home if they have:

• Fever (100.4°F or higher)    Return after 24 hours fever-free without medication
• Vomiting or diarrhea     Return after 24 hours symptom-free
• Pink eye, strep throat, ringworm, or impetigo     Must be on medication for at least 24 hours before returning
• Unexplained rash, Especially with fever
• Severe cough or trouble breathing
• Head injury
• Cold with thick or constant nasal discharge
• Stiff neck with fever or recent injury
• Immunizations not up to date during an outbreak

For more details, refer to the Communicable Disease Reference Chart for School Personnel.

Need Help with Food?

Call the Food Help Line: 703-794-4668

• Get connected to a nearby food pantry
• Request delivery if transportation is a barrier

Medication Reminder

• All medications must be picked up by the last day of school
• Only parents or guardians may transport medication
• Unclaimed medication will be safely disposed of

Contact the clinic with any questions.

Food Allergy Safety

Some students have severe, life-threatening food allergies.

How you can help:

• Avoid sending nut products when possible
• Have your child wash hands and face after eating allergens
• Do not send food treats for birthdays
• Choose non-food items such as:
  • Stickers
  • Pencils
  • Erasers

These steps help keep all students safe.

Seasonal Allergies

If your child takes allergy medication:

• Give it daily before school during allergy season
• This helps prevent missed class time

Head Lice

• Students with lice may stay in school until the end of the day
• After treatment at home, a parent must bring the student in for a nurse check before returning to class

See PWCS Regulation 753-2 for more information.

Flu Season Tips

• Get a yearly flu vaccine
• Stay home when sick
• Cover coughs and sneezes
• Wash hands often
• Avoid touching face
• Clean shared surfaces regularly

Clinic Needs

We welcome donations of:

• Gently used clothing
• Disposable cups
• Tissues

If your child borrows clothing, please wash and return it promptly.

Required Physicals and Immunizations

• Required for Kindergarten and new students in grades 1 to 5
• Students cannot start school without these records

Where to get them:

• Doctor’s office
• Urgent care centers
• Military treatment facilities
• Prince William Health District
• Greater Prince William Community Health Center

Required School Entrance Form

Special Health Conditions

We can support students with medical needs.

If your child needs medication at school:

• Bring it to the clinic in the original sealed container
• Include required paperwork
• Medication must be age-appropriate

Contact the clinic for support.