Learners unable to attend school due to medical needs

Case study 1

Pippa was extremely allergic to peanuts, so much so that a medical pen filled with medication had to be close at hand at all times. Also, if this was required, staff needed to be able to confidently inject the medication via the rectum to Pippa. Understandably this caused much concern and fears that the school would not be able to keep Pippa safe. However, the staff did not wish to exclude her from her local school and set about making changes to the school environment. The following are areas that were changed enabling Pippas safe and successful inclusion:

■ The school nurse arranged training regarding the medication to TAs who were trained First Aiders and willing to carry out the treatment if ever necessary.

■ The school put photographs and allergy alert warnings of Pippa up in the office, the class register and the dining hall so that ALL adults would have a visual reminder of Pippas medical needs.

■ All staff were informed of Pippas particular allergy and reaction to any contact with peanuts.

■ All pupils were asked NOT to bring peanut sandwiches for their lunches due to a peers risk.

■ The SENCO arranged a timetable of cover that meant that the class teacher, a trained teaching assistant or lunch time supervisor wore a light, over the shoulder handbag with the medication in it at all times (and there was always a second or third possible person in case of sickness etc.).

■ A First Aider regularly checked the medication making sure it was in date and she was responsible for contacting Pippas Mum, if this needed to be changed.

■ Regular meetings were held with parents to keep up to date with Pippas needs. The plans put in place to ensure Pippas safety meant that her education was not disrupted in any way. Expectations from educators were high and social interaction with her peers did not have to be adapted as it was the adults who had altered routines enabling her to play and mix normally.

مواضيع ذات صلة

Other factors that affect learning: epilepsy, HIV/AIDS, puberty and mental health issues Key issues

How can educators identify learners at risk of mental health problems?

So what are mental health problems and mental health disorders?

Child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS)

Educating school-age parents

Puberty

Learners unable to attend school due to medical needs Case study 1

Learners unable to attend school due to medical needs

Other factors that affect learning HIV/AIDS

Treatment of epilepsy Case study 2

Treatment of epilepsy Case study 1

Treatment of epilepsy