Pediatricians can help school nurses by writing a complete order.
Pediatricians should be specific about medications, dosages, time of day, frequency, and length of treatment. Many school systems provide forms for the administration of medication at school which require this level of detail, but occasionally physicians don't complete the form or write the orders on their office stationary without complete information. Schools and school nurses then need to follow-up with the physician's office, taking valuable time away from their regular duties. By improving communication and providing needed instructions, pediatricians and other physicians working with schools can ensure the best care for children in school. The information contained in the AAP School Health Web site should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician.