Nestled within the busy halls of a high school lies a hidden hero, the school nurse, who is always ready to heal, comfort, and empower. I recently had the privilege of shadowing one such nurse, and the experience was nothing short of inspiring. I visited Westerville Central High School, a suburban community with a diverse student population.
As the day began, the school nurse, Amanda, and I embarked on a journey of care and compassion. Throughout the day there were the usual teenage mishaps, where we handed out ice for injuries, bandages for cuts, and even ice for new and healing piercings! Each interaction was met with a smile, a reassuring touch, and a listening ear, showcasing the unwavering dedication to students’ well-being.
We were also called upon to train some of the teachers chaperoning senior students to Cedar Point the following week, ensuring they were equipped to handle any medical emergencies that might arise. We covered everything from using an AED and performing CPR to administering medications and providing basic first aid care, leaving the teachers feeling confident and prepared for their upcoming trip. We also prepared a “Grab and Go” medical bag that included all of the necessary supplies and medications for the trip.
Amidst the excitement of training, we also took some time to reach out to new admission parents, kindly reminding them of Ohio’s school rules regarding immunization records. This task, though seemingly mundane, highlighted the nurse’s commitment to ensuring a safe and healthy environment for all students. We provided families with the following colorful and easy to read chart and instructions that highlights the necessary immunizations.
As the day drew to a close, I couldn’t help but reflect on the invaluable role school nurses play in the lives of students. They are not just caregivers; they are mentors, confidants, and advocates, shaping the futures of students and their relationship with healthy and safety.
My experience at Westerville Central High School addresses Sustainable Development Goal number 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promotes well-being for all at all ages. In particular, the role of the school nurse includes addressing target 3.b of this goal, which states, support the research and development of vaccines and medicines for the communicable and non-communicable diseases…to protect public health, and in particular, provide access to medicines for all. We provided families and students resources and education regarding immunizations and vaccines that are required for all high school students in the state of Ohio. It is imperative that families and students are aware of the benefits, risks, and health outcomes that are associated with administration of immunizations and vaccines. I am confident that the families we spoke with today are now well informed and are equipped with the knowledge and resources to make important health decisions.
In conclusion, my day shadowing a school nurse was a whirlwind of excitement, compassion, and learning. It reinforced my belief in the power of kindness and empathy and left me in awe of the incredible work done by school nurses every day.
I also stopped by Rooster’s for dinner, a mid western staple for chicken wings and sports. I grabbed some Cheryl’s Cookies for our COIL friends, hoping to introduce them to a delicious Columbus sweet staple. The Roosters Foundation gives back over 1 million dollars to local charities and organizations each year, with their Cheryl’s Cookie sales being a top contributor. 100% of proceeds from sales goes directly to The Urban and Shelby Meyer Fund for Cancer Research, a fund that helps to recruit experts in the field of cancer research to
the OSUCCC – James. I am excited for the students to try the cookies while also supporting
a great cause!
