Tuesday, April 14, 2009

I think one of the most unfortunate things about this story is that it could easily have been prevented. We're talking about a misplaced inhaler here. Although the bigger problem seems to be that there is a shortage of school nurses (1 circulating between 3 schools), I think at the bare minimum schools should ensure that medicine and simple medical supplies are easily accessible and organized.

It really should not be too difficult to arrange a space to place inhalers, medications, and splints for minor injuries. Sure schools can make a valid point that they lack funding for nurses or that there is a shortage of nurses, but it is their responsibility to ensure that a child will be able to access his/her inhaler when needed. There is absolutely no reason why the school can not designate an organized system for filing medications and medical supplies for children. How hard is it to purchase a sterile bin or any storage container for an inhaler? Schools simply have no excuse for not ensuring a rudimentary system for basic health care needs for children. Plain and simple.

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