Summer fun is almost over for about 50 million American students.To ensure that students of all ages go to class in the best possible health, the nation’s emergency physicians are advising parents and guardians to do a little homework of their own and go through a back-to-school health check list.
- Organize your child’s medical history records and emergency medical contact information. Provide copies of this information to your child’s school and any day care providers with instructions to take it with them to the emergency department if your child is sick or injured. The form should include information related to prescription medications, medical problems, or previous surgeries as well as pertinent family history and emergency contacts. Free forms can be downloaded by clicking here.
- Coordinate with the school nurse and your child’s physician to develop action plans for any health issues, such as asthma or food allergies.
- Schedule medical and dental check-ups before school starts.
- Review and do a dry run with your child of his or her route to school, explaining potential hazards along the way.
- If your child takes the bus, establish a safe, visible pick up/drop off spot, preferably with a group of children and in an area where they can be clearly seen by adults.
- Make sure your children know how to telephone for help.
For more tips, visit www.acep.org.
