Which actions exemplify the school nurse's role as a child advocate? (Select all that apply.)

Question

A) Injecting a child with her EpiPen during an anaphylactic reaction to peanuts
B) Convincing the cafeteria manager to include low-sugar options in the lunch menu for students with diabetes
C) Taking the temperature of a child who is exhibiting signs of an upper respiratory infection
D) Teaching a child who has recently been diagnosed with asthma how to use an inhaler
E) Instructing a group of faculty members on the proper way to respond to a child having an epileptic seizure in class

Answer 1

Ans: B, D, E
Feedback:
Advocacy involves both teaching children and empowering others who care for the children to ensure quality care. The child with a chronic health condition presents a unique challenge for nurses as advocates. As many as 10% to 15% of children in schools are affected with chronic conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, and seizure disorders, that require daily treatment. The nurse as advocate has two important roles: spreading knowledge and networking. Spreading knowledge does not ensure health, but a person's sense of being able to control his or her own healthcare does promote healthy behaviors. Networking is also important. Working together, the school nurse, parents, teachers, and healthcare providers can ensure that the child with special healthcare needs has access to all educational resources and opportunities. Injecting a child with an EpiPen during an anaphylactic reaction and taking a child's temperature are basic nursing interventions and do not exemplify advocacy, as the nurse is not teaching, networking, or empowering others. All of the other answers are characterized by these behaviors.