1. Primary Health Care

The school nurse in West Hartford has traditionally assured access to primary health care by developing and maintaining links with community agencies.  The school nurse has information regarding the Husky Health Plan for families that do not have insurance.  Click here to visit the State of Connecticut's Husky website:
 
HUSKY

2. Crisis Medical situations

The school nurse in West Hartford develops a system of efficient and expert handling of emergency and crisis medical situations. The nurses work with an Emergency Response Teams within the school building to develop a plan of action for emergency medical situations.

3. Mandated Screenings and Immunizations

            In accordance with CT State Law and Town of West
            Hartford policy, a health assessment is required prior 
            to public school enrollment, and in grades 3, 6, and 
            10.  A physical examination includes hematocrit or 
            hemoglobin tests, height, weight and blood pressure; 
            an updating of immunizations as recommended; vision,
            hearing, speech and gross dental screenings.  The assess-
            ment shall also include tests for tuberculosis, sickle cell
            anemia, Cooley's anemia and tests for lead levels in the 
            blood if such tests are necessary.  The health assessment
            information must be on the blue State of Connecticut 
            Department of Health Assessment Record. (form (HAR-3).

            Immunizations required are as follows:

• DTP: at least 4 doses with the last dose given after the 4^th birthday

• A booster is required prior to entry into 7^th grade

• HIB: at least one dose given after the 1^st birthday (students < 5 years of age)

• Polio: at least 4 doses with the last dose given after the 4^th birthday

• A booster is required prior to entry into 7^th grade

• MMR: 2 doses for entry into kindergarten and 7^th grade

• HepB: 3 doses required for entry into K and 7^th grade

• Varicella: 1 dose or proof of immunity from disease (chicken pox) Required for children born 1/1/97 or later. Required for entry into 7^th grade.

Children entering the pre-school program must have all age appropriate immunizations. 

Children entering West Hartford schools from another state or country must have a physical dated within 1 year of entry into West Hartford Schools. If the student is from another country, the physical and immunization information must be completed by a CT licensed health care provider. 

4. Identification and solution of students’ health and education problems.

The school nurse in West Hartford is considered a member of the child’s education team. She participates in Strategy meetings, PPT meetings, develops Nursing Care Plans for children with health needs, administers medications and performs specialized health care procedures as ordered by the child’s health care provider.

5. Comprehensive and appropriate health education

The school nurse in West Hartford acts as a resource person for the classroom staff  who teach health topics. The nurse may be invited to present information to the class on health and wellness topics. The school nurse does individual health education for children with identified medical conditions. This may include the proper  use of prescribed medications, identification of signs and symptoms to report to a parent or teacher. The nurse consults as needed with classroom staff so they can be knowledgeable about a child’s specific health needs.

6. Provides safe and healthful school environment

            The school nurse in West Hartford provides care for children 
            who may become ill or injured at school.  The nurse monitors
             trends to identify areas that pose risk of injury or illness to 
            students.  The nurse maintains communication with the family  
            of students to assure students maintain optimal health status.
            School nurses are members of the Health and Safety
            Committee.

7. Provide a system of evaluation of effectiveness of school health program.

In West Hartford the school nurses maintains accurate records of care given.  The nurses work on an on-going system of evaluating the effectiveness of the health care program.