Physical Exam
A physical examination by a physician or certified nurse practitioner must be completed within nine months prior to entering the public school system or within six months after entering the system. A Physical Examination form designated by the Maryland State Department of Education may be used.

Immunizations
All students must meet the immunization requirements. Contact your nurse if your child has a bonafide religious objection or a permanent or temporary medical contraindication documented by your primary care provider or have a signed exemption form to be enrolled in Garrett County Public Schools. Your child's school nurse will be able to answer any questions you might have.

• 3 DTaP
• 1 Tdap *
• 3 Polio
• 3 Hepatitis B
• 2 MMR
• 1-2 Varicella-or documented history of chickenpox
• 1 Meningococcal *

Medications
In general, the administration of medication to students while they are in schools is discouraged. If a student must have medication while in school, treatment schedules which allow doses to be given at times other than during the school hours are preferred and encouraged. The medication must be provided to the school by the parent/guardian in the original container. The Medication Administration Form must be completed and signed by the parent/guardian and prescribing health care provider. This includes any prescription medications and over-the-counter medications. Inhalers for asthma, insulin for diabetes, and auto-injectors with Epinephrine for severe allergic reactions are all considered EMERGENCY MEDICATIONS. These medications can be carried and self-administered by the student when appropriate and with authorization from the prescriber, parent, and school nurse.

Vision/Hearing
Screening is provided for new students and by those referred to by a teacher or a parent/guardian. If your child should show abnormal results, a letter of notification will be sent home with referral recommendations.

Health Emergencies
In the case of an emergency at school, the parents or guardian will be notified. If the parent/guardian cannot be reached, the emergency contact will be notified. Be sure to provide accurate and updated contact information. Changes/updates can be made by emailing or calling the school. If an emergency situation should arise and emergency medical services are needed, 911 will be called. Any and all measures will be taken to support the health and safety of the students.

• Sore throat; unable to swallow with swollen, painful neck glands
• Chills
• Fever of 100.4 degrees or higher with an oral thermometer
• Headache plus one other symptom
• Earache
• Rash, unexplained
• Flushed face, especially cheeks
• Runny nose with thick white or greenish mucous
• Severe cough, persistent enough to be disruptive or that causes vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting: 2 episodes in 24hrs. (If sick through the night, stay home.)
• Reddened eye/s with discharge (pus)
• Asthmatics who: Have a respiratory infection, fever over 100 degrees, wheezing or coughing that does not get better one hour after taking medication, weakness or fatigue that makes daily activities difficult, or breathing difficulty.

• Fever, usually high
• Headache
• Extreme fatigue
• Dry cough
• Sore throat (sometimes)
• Runny or stuffy nose (sometimes)
• Muscle aches
• Chest discomfort
• GI symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can occur, but more often in kids than adults.

Chronic Illness

Asthma
Asthma Action Plan/Order Form

Seizures
Epilepsy Foundation

Diabetes
Diabetes Management Form

Allergies
Diet Modification Form

Resource Links