April 21, 2025
Nurse Notes - April
Our School Nurses
Spring brings a variety of activities and opportunities for families to enjoy the outdoors, but it also presents potential health and safety concerns. Here are some essential health and safety tips for parents and families to consider this spring season.
Outdoor Protection
- Sun Protection: Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 on skin, and reapply every 2 hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Encourage wearing hats and UV-protective sunglasses.
- Mosquitoes & Ticks: Use insect repellent containing DEET or other EPA-approved ingredients to protect against ticks and mosquitoes. Consider wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants in tall grass and wooded areas. Check for ticks after outdoor activities.
- Bees/ wasps: To ensure safety around bees and wasps, it is essential to remain calm and avoid swatting them, as sudden movements can provoke stings. Keep food and drinks covered, and avoid wearing bright colors or floral patterns that may attract these insects. If you have a known allergy, always carry an epinephrine pen and be familiar with the signs of an allergic reaction.
- Extreme Heat & Hydration: Be mindful of extreme hot & humid weather and overexerting yourself outside. Stay hydrated and cool off inside. Signs of heat exhaustion
Allergy Awareness
- Signs/ symptoms of spring allergies: Sneezing, wheezing, a runny nose, watery and/or itchy eyes can all be signs of allergies. Call your provider to help manage and treat seasonal symptoms.
- Pollen management: Be aware of pollen counts in your area and limit outdoor activities when counts are high, especially for those with known allergies. Consider keeping windows closed during high pollen days.
Play Safety
- Supervision: Always supervise children during outdoor play, especially near water bodies, parks, or busy streets.
- Playground check: Teach your child playground rules like waiting their turn, going down the slide feet first, holding onto railings, and sitting down on the swing or slides to prevent injuries. Before you use the playground, touch the play structures to check for hot surfaces that may cause burn injuries. Remove helmets, drawstrings, or any loose items that may be choking hazards.
- Bicycle Safety: Ensure all family members wear helmets when biking and follow traffic rules. Check that the bikes are in good working order before riding.
Water Safety
- Warmer weather means families begin to spend more time around pools, lakes, and rivers. Follow these water tips.
Have a safe and enjoyable spring season! ~Your School Nurses