Many schools now lock the bathroom between classes and some have eliminated doors on the bathroom stalls for security reasons. Parents should investigate their child's school situation to help the school develop a plan to provide bathroom access at the nurse's office, which will often reduce the student's anxiety. A physician's note to the school stating the child's diagnosis will allow restroom privileges to be arranged in a way that eliminates calling attention to the child. A change of clothes can help considerably in unfortunate situations. Children often need to take medications during school hours.
Schools generally require written guidelines for medication administration.
It is important for the school nurse to be aware of the child's medications and possible side effects. Medication administration should be arranged so that minimal attention is drawn to the child. Participation in physical education classes should be encouraged. For some children with IBD, intense physical activity may aggravate their symptoms, but moderate activity is beneficial for all patients. Malnutrition and the manifestations of disease may limit a student's ability to perform, and school programs should be encouraged to make special considerations for ill patients.