Assessed parents' information needs regarding childhood immunizations and their satisfaction with the Vaccination Information Pamphlets (VIPS). Found that parents wanted information about many aspects of immunizations, and those familiar with the VIPs reported high levels of satisfaction. Some, however, reported that the pamphlets were too long.…

Describes the importance of early childhood education as a source of information about health and safety of young children. Discusses the significance of early childhood programs adopting an epidemiological approach to document this information. Outlines a five-step plan to conduct an epidemiological study, using examples from epidemiological…

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons launched a national public education campaign focusing on the problem of injuries related to playground equipment. The article presents several of its recommendations for playground safety and provides instructions for obtaining a free brochure. (SM)

Examined lunch entree choices by students in 16 elementary schools. During baseline period, low-fat entrees were available on 23% of days and selected by 39% of students. During intervention period, these figures were 71% of days and 29% of students. Across intervention, fat content of average meal dropped from 36% to 30% of calories from fat. (BC)

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, playgrounds and their equipment are linked to more than 100,000 injuries requiring emergency care each year. National Safety Council guidelines are provided concerning playground surfaces, equipment, and design. Suggestions are also given for maintaining playgrounds and making them safer.…

Developed for State Farm Insurance in cooperation with the Chicago Fire Department and educators, the Smoke Detectives program helps children understand that they can be competent and in control when confronted by fires or other dangerous situations if they know what to do (stop, drop, and roll!) and don't panic. (MLH)

Today's school nurses have significant responsibilities. Despite research proving their importance, very few schools have certified school nurses, relying instead on school personnel. A wish list for school nurses might include sufficient numbers and funding, school-based health centers, and confidential records. Parents can help ensure students'…

In a climate where increasing numbers of performance demands are placed on youth, the author provides an inspiring account of how humor can bring joy to troubled lives and foster social and emotional learning. (Author)

This 1958 paper questions whether school nurses should wear uniforms (specifically, white uniforms). It concludes that white uniforms are often associated with the treatment of ill people, and since many people have a fear reaction to them, they are not necessary and are even undesirable. Since school nurses are school staff members, they should…

This 1972 paper presents 12 comparisons of the nurse's role in the school versus in the hospital. For example, in the hospital, patients know they are ill and want to get well, while in school patients may not recognize that they need help. In the hospital, the nurse's workload is determined for her, while in school, it is self-determined. (SM)

To review the state of research on the association between common chronic health conditions and academic outcomes, the authors reviewed published studies investigating the association of school attendance, cognitive ability, and achievement with a number of chronic diseases. Tables with brief descriptions of each study's research methods and…

To review the state of research on the association between obesity among school-aged children and academic outcomes, the authors reviewed published studies investigating obesity, school performance, and rates of student absenteeism. A table with brief descriptions of each study's research methodology and outcomes is included. Research demonstrates…

This article presents a short case presentation and differential diagnosis of pyogenic granuloma, a dome-shaped solitary vascular tumor. The tumors are a proliferation of capillaries and blood-filled vascular channels within a circumscribed area, which gives the lesion a lobulated appearance. They usually appear as dull red, firm nodules that may…

A 1"-grader entered the health room at Wayside Elementary School in Potomac, Md., with an odd complaint."I feel bloated," the boy reported to Diane Arkin, a health aide.Arkin, trying to keep a straight face, asked the 6-year-old, "What does bloated feel like?"He thought for a second. "It feels like I'm 51 ."(Source: Bulletin, Montgomery County,…

Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that has been a mainstay in pediatric care for decades. Although new antibiotics are constantly under development, gentamicin continues to play an important role in clinical medicine. Although this may be surprising in the context of evidence of an association with hearing loss, both on a toxicity and a…