Children With Life-Threatening Conditions
In order to provide a safe learning environment, the legislature of the
State of Washington has passed a new requirement for children with
life-threatening conditions. (Chapter 101, Laws of 2002, amending
Chapter 28A.210 RCW)
Effective June 13, 2002, the
attendance of a child with a life threatening condition at a Washington
public school shall be dependent upon receiving medication or treatment
orders before or on the child's first day of attendance at school.
The law defines life-threatening condition as "a health condition that
will put the child in danger of death during the school day if a
medication or treatment order and a nursing plan are not in place."
Children with life-threatening conditions such as severe bee sting or
food allergies, severe asthma, unstable diabetes, severe seizures,
etc., are now required to have a medication or treatment order in place
before they start school.
"Medication or treatment order"
means the authority a registered nurse
obtains under RCW 18.79.260(2). This is covered when the child's
licensed health care provider completes the Authorization for
Medication form or treatment order for medical services to be performed
at the school.
If a medication or treatment order is not provided, the principal of
the school is required to exclude the child until such an order is
provided. This requirement applies to students with life-threatening
conditions who are new to the district, and students who are already
attending the school. Our exclusion procedures are in accordance with
the rules (WACs) of the State Board of Education.
It is vital to your child's safety during the school day that if your
child has a life-threatening health condition requiring medical
services at school, you immediately notify your school nurse. The
necessary forms will be provided and a time will be arranged for you to
meet with your child's school nurse.
Please contact the school nurse if you have any questions or would like further clarification.
|
