Evaluation

When a student is injured or ill to any degree at school or during any school-sponsored activity, it is the responsibility of school staff to see that immediate care and attention is provided to the student until the staff member is relieved by another staff member certified in first aid, a nurse, a doctor, or emergency personnel.  

Infectious illness will be managed according to Policy and Procedure No. 3414, Infectious Diseases.  Except in cases of very minor illnesses or injuries (e.g., cuts, scrapes, rug burns) that, in the judgment of the school nurse or a staff member certified in first aid, do not pose a serious health risk to the student and will not worsen if the student remains at school, the principal or designee and school nurse will be promptly notified of any student’s: 1) injury; 2) illness; or 3) physical trauma that could have caused injuries as yet unobservable. The school nurse or a staff member certified in first aid will determine whether the injury, illness or trauma is serious enough to warrant calling 911. Upon a finding that it is not, either individual will provide appropriate first aid to the student consistent with their training.

Emergency Treatment

Upon recommendation of the school nurse or a staff member certified in first aid, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) will be called immediately and the student will be transported to the hospital by EMS.  Students with uncontrolled bleeding and those who have suffered temporary suffocation, cardiac arrest, fractures or injuries to the head, neck, eye, ear or spine must only be moved and transported by EMS, unless treating in place will present a risk of imminent danger from some other hazard (traffic, electrical, etc.).

Parent/Guardian or Emergency Contact Notification

Except in cases of very minor injuries as described above, the principal or designee will notify the parent or guardian (or, if the parent or guardian cannot be reached, the emergency contact), to advise them of the student’s condition and disposition as soon as practicable.

In non-emergency situations, the student’s parent or guardian, or emergency contact, will decide whether: 1) the parent/guardian or emergency contact will contact their health care provider; 2) the parent/guardian or emergency contact will pick up the student; or 3) the student will remain at school. 

Reporting

A staff member who witnesses an injury will initiate an accident / injury report as soon as possible.  Additional information will be included by the person or persons providing care.  The written report should include a description of the circumstances of the injury, the care provided, and the disposition (remain at school, parent/guardian took home, EMS transported) of the student.  The report should be sent to the Risk Manager as soon as possible.

In the event of a serious injury or accident, the principal will notify the Executive Director for that school as soon as possible.

Advanced Directives

The district will consult with its legal counsel prior to accepting any advance directives to physicians to limit medical treatment.

In the event that advance directives regarding end of life care are received by the district, the principal or designee will notify the Health Services Manager to determine if additional nursing support is needed.

Policy Cross References

• 3121 – Attendance
• 3124 – Removal/Release of Student During School Hours
• 3418 – Response to Student Injury or Illness
• 3422 – Student Sports – Concussion, Head Injuries, and Sudden Cardiac Arrest

Revisions

• February 18, 2015

Approved

• December 16, 2011