Examines violence prevention programs nationwide, which are not only changing student behavior but also laying the foundation of morality, honesty, respect, and accountability within U.S. students. Successful programs target specific populations, build individual skills, include parent effectiveness training, and encourage changes in peer group…

Presents information about Tourette Syndrome to help school nurses understand some of the complexities of this disorder, offering three case studies of students with Tourette Syndrome. The paper describes its effects on young people, stressing that children can lead happy and productive lives despite having Tourette Syndrome. A sidebar describes…

The school nurse is a resource and support to students, school personnel, and communities with respect to students with cancer. This article discusses: general cancer information and statistics; childhood cancer versus adult cancer; treatments for childhood cancer; and information for school nurses (e.g., central venous catheters in school,…

Discusses body image among adolescents, explaining that today's adolescents are more prone to body image distortions and dissatisfaction than ever and examining the historical context; how self-image develops; normative discontent; body image distortions; body dysmorphic disorder (BDD); vulnerability of boys (muscle dysmorphia); who is at risk;…

Presents suggestions on what school nurses can do to help overweight children and teens, focusing on: the increasing problem of childhood obesity, debate over the healthfulness of school lunches, the link between increased obesity and type 2 diabetes in children and teens, and creating partnerships to promote healthy lifestyles among children. (SM)

Presents guidance to help school nurses achieve three goals: describe the scope of the problems related to teen smoking, discuss the characteristics of teens most likely to begin smoking, and identify strategies that parents and nurses can use to discourage teen smoking. A sidebar includes a 10-question quiz on adolescent tobacco use as well as an…

Describes how school nurses can advocate for adolescent female students and help them avoid the female athlete triad that includes disordered eating, amenorrhea, and osteoporosis. The article focuses on consequences of the triad, how to uncover the symptoms, working to improve public support, and creating a successful program through partnership.…

Discusses the current status of immunizations, the latest immunization recommendations, and the important role of school nurses in ensuring that all students are properly immunized with the correct immunizations at the correct time. An alphabetical listing of immunizations provides specific details. The paper also discusses myths versus facts…

Presents suggestions to help school nurses intervene on behalf of students who demonstrate signs of Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD) and other autism-related syndromes. The paper describes autism and Asperger's syndrome and discusses how to help students with PDD. Two sidebars present PDD subtypes and signs and symptoms of Asperger's…

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) can occur at any age in apparently healthy people. Early identification and intervention are essential. This article examines SCD in children and adolescents, explaining: who is at risk; the importance of training school personnel for SCD emergencies and having automated external defibrillators (AED) within the schools;…

Presents suggestions to help school nurses recognize and deal with the causes of children's physical problems in times of trauma and stress and coordinate their responsibilities with other professionals and parents (focusing on the events of September 11, 2001). The article also discusses how to recognize posttraumatic stress disorder in children…

Discusses the effects of violence on today's children and adolescents, focusing on: risk factors for violence (age, gender, and personal characteristics); family violence; violence beyond the family (in the media, in the community, and among peers); effects of exposure to violence related to school functioning, emotional stability, and orientation…

Suggests violence prevention strategies that can be adapted for school health offices. The activity teaches school nurses to: recognize at least four steps in identifying family violence in a health history; discuss at least three parent, child, family, and community activities to reduce family violence; and identify at least three resources to…

School nurses play a critical role in the effective school- based treatment of students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). They can help debunk myths associated with medications for ADHD, explain the ongoing nature of treatment for children with ADHD, and help develop behavior support plans. Sidebars offer suggestions for…