Children's Health forums 2012 Calendar
2011 2012 School Nurse Schedule
Emergency Health Inventory
Medication Administration Permission Form
Food Allergy Action Plan
Seasonal and 2009 H1N1 Information
Medication Administration Form
2012 2013 Immunization Requirements
Walking and Jogging Safety Tips
Mrs Talty
Mr. Inmon's Last Newsletter
4/25/2012
This is the last newsletter that Mr. Inmon wrote for us. I want to extend my thanks to him for all his help and best wishes in his future career. Bev Talty
Children's Health Forums 1012 Calendar
2/17/2012
Parents, I have posted the 2012 Calendar of children’s Health forum offered by Mercy Hospital. You will find a link to it just to the left in my File Library. Registration is required for these programs although there is no cost. Check it out! Bev Talty
Immunization Update
2/10/2012
Dear Parents, attached please find the Immunization Update published on 2/6/12. It has information about where you can get vaccines and required vaccines for school children. I hope you have a toasty, warm indoor activity planned for this weekend! Bev Talty, R.N.
February 2012 news and Notes
2/1/2012
Dear Parents, we are so lucky to have Mr. Tony Inmon working here in the Health Room for the next few weeks. Mr. Inmon is an R.N. finishing up an advanced degree. You may hear your children talk about that male nurse working with Mrs. Talty! He has lots of real world experience and has been a real blessing to me. Please stop by in the next few weeks for an introduction. In the meantme, Mr. Inmon has written the attached newsletter. I think it’s chock full of good info. A quick reminder to please start sending in immunization records for next year. All incoming 8th graders and all incoming Kindergarteners will need boosters! Please see the newsletter for more details. Enjoy the wonderful, unseasonable, weather!
Bev Talty, R.N.
December 2011 News and Notes
12/14/2011
Dear Parents, attached please find the December edition of News and Notes. Please reead the information in it concerning the Preschool Amblyopia screening. It comes up right after we come back from Christmas break!
I hope you and your family have a very blessed and merry Christmas. I’ve been praying for good weather and good health! God bless you all.
November News and Notes
11/15/2011
Dear Parents. attached please find the November News and Notes. It is a little longer than last month because I have included some information about vaccination requirements for students who will be entering Kindergarten and 8th grade next year. I have also added some contact information on the last page. I promise not to be so talkative next month! I hope you all have a good Thanksgving. When I am counting my blessings, I always remember your children! Bev Talty, R.N.
September Edition of News and Notes
9/19/2011
Dear Parents, attached please find the September copy of News and Notes. I hope you’ve been enjoying this cooler weather. Wasn’t the rain wonderful? Bev erly Talty, R.N.
August 2011 Newsletter
8/23/2011
Dear Parents, attached, please find the August 2011 newsletter.
May 2011 News and Notes
5/20/2011
Dear Parents, attached please find the May 2011 edition of News and Notes. I hope you and your family have a safe and fun summer vacation!
Special Immunization Edition of News and Notes
5/5/2011
Dear Parents, attached please find the latest edition of News and Notes. It is a special edition dealing exclusively with immunizations. Please don’t hesitate to call if you have any questions. I’m always happy to receive immunization records and will gladly look up the records we have here at school.
April News and Notes
4/15/2011
Dear Parents, Attached, please find the April edition of News and Notes. I hope you have a wonderful weekend and a great Easter break!
February 2011 News and Notes
2/15/2011
Dear Parents, Attached is the latest copy of Healthroom News and Notes. I’d like to especially draw your attention to the article on page 2 concerning the upcoming FoodPower presentation we are fortunate to have again at our school. Please call or email if you have any questions. thanks! Bev Talty, R.N.
December News and Notes
12/20/2010
Dear Parents, attached please find the December News and Notes. Merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year to you and your families!
November 2010 Health Room News and Notes
11/22/2010
Dear Parents; Attached find the current issue of News and Notes. I hope you have a safe, happy, and restful Thanksgiving. May God bless each of you. Bev Talty
October 2010 Health Room News and Notes
10/14/2010
Here is the latest newsletter.
Car Theft Prevention Tips
10/8/2010
This information comes from Mr. Dwayne Doran, Director of Safety and Security at St. John’s Hospital.
In the United States, a vehicle is stolen every 21 seconds. Stolen cars, vans, trucks, and motorcycles cost victims time and money – and increase everyone’s insurance premiums. They’re also often used to commit other crimes. Don’t become a victim of this serious crime. The National Crime Prevention offers tips to protect yourself from the crime. The Basic Prevention Policy Never leave your car running or the keys in the ignition when you’re away from it, even for “just a minute.” • Always roll up the windows and lock the car, even if it’s in front of your home. • Never leave valuables in plain view, even if your car is locked. Put them in the trunk or at least out of sight. Buy radios and tape and CD players that can be removed and locked in the trunk. • Park in busy, well-lighted areas. • Carry the registration and insurance card with you. Don’t leave personal identification documents or credit cards in your vehicle. • When you pay to park in a lot or garage, leave just the ignition key with the attendant. Make sure no personal information is attached. Do the same when you take your car for repairs. Add Extra Protection • Install a mechanical locking device – commonly called clubs, collars, or j-bars – that locks to the steering wheel, column, or brake to prevent the wheel from being turned more than a few degrees. Use it! • Investigate security systems if you live in a high-theft area or drive an automobile that’s an attractive target for thieves. You may get a discount on your auto insurance. What About Carjacking? • Carjacking – stealing a car by force – has captured headlines in the last few years. Statistically, your chances of being a carjacking victim are very slim, and preventive actions can reduce the risk even more. • Etch the vehicle identification number (VIN) on the In the United States, a vehicle is stolen every 21 seconds. Stolen cars, vans, trucks, and motorcycles cost victims time and money – and increase everyone’s insurance premiums. They’re also often used to commit other crimes. Don’t become a victim of this serious crime. The National Crime Prevention offers tips to protect yourself from the crime. The Basic Prevention Policy Never leave your car running or the keys in the ignition when you’re away from it, even for “just a minute.” • Always roll up the windows and lock the car, even if it’s in front of your home. • Never leave valuables in plain view, even if your car is locked. Put them in the trunk or at least out of sight. Buy radios and tape and CD players that can be removed and locked in the trunk. • Park in busy, well-lighted areas. • Carry the registration and insurance card with you. Don’t leave personal identification documents or credit cards in your vehicle. • When you pay to park in a lot or garage, leave just the ignition key with the attendant. Make sure no personal information is attached. Do the same when you take your car for repairs. Add Extra Protection • Install a mechanical locking device – commonly called clubs, collars, or j-bars – that locks to the steering wheel, column, or brake to prevent the wheel from being turned more than a few degrees. Use it! • Investigate security systems if you live in a high-theft area or drive an automobile that’s an attractive target for thieves. You may get a discount on your auto insurance. What About Carjacking? • Carjacking – stealing a car by force – has captured headlines in the last few years. Statistically, your chances of being a carjacking victim are very slim, and preventive actions can reduce the risk even more. Etch the vehicle identification number (VIN) on the In the United States, a vehicle is stolen every 21 seconds. Stolen cars, vans, trucks, and motorcycles cost victims time and money – and increase everyone’s insurance premiums. They’re also often used to commit other crimes. Don’t become a victim of this serious crime. The National Crime Prevention offers tips to protect yourself from the crime. The Basic Prevention Policy Never leave your car running or the keys in the ignition when you’re away from it, even for “just a minute.” • Always roll up the windows and lock the car, even if it’s in front of your home. • Never leave valuables in plain view, even if your car is locked. Put them in the trunk or at least out of sight. Buy radios and tape and CD players that can be removed and locked in the trunk. • Park in busy, well-lighted areas. • Carry the registration and insurance card with you. Don’t leave personal identification documents or credit cards in your vehicle. • When you pay to park in a lot or garage, leave just the ignition key with the attendant. Make sure no personal information is attached. Do the same when you take your car for repairs. Add Extra Protection • Install a mechanical locking device – commonly called clubs, collars, or j-bars – that locks to the steering wheel, column, or brake to prevent the wheel from being turned more than a few degrees. Use it! • Investigate security systems if you live in a high-theft area or drive an automobile that’s an attractive target for thieves. You may get a discount on your auto insurance. What About Carjacking? • Carjacking – stealing a car by force – has captured headlines in the last few years. Statistically, your chances of being a carjacking victim are very slim, and preventive actions can reduce the risk even more. Etch the vehicle identification number (VIN) on the windows, doors, fenders, and trunk lid. This helps discourage professional thieves who have to either remove or replace etched parts before selling the car. Copy the VIN and your tag number on a card and keep it in a safe place. If your vehicle is stolen, the police need this information. • Approach your car with the key in hand. Look around and inside before getting in. • When driving, keep your car doors locked and windows rolled up at all times. • Be especially alert at intersections, gas stations, ATMs, shopping malls, convenience and grocery stores – all are windows of opportunity for carjackers. • Park in well-lighted areas with good visibility, close to walkways, stores, and people. • If the carjacker has a weapon, give up the car with no questions asked. Your life is worth more than a car. Beware Of the “Bump-and-Rob” • It works like this. A car, usually with a driver and at least one passenger, rear-ends or “bumps” you in traffic. You get out to check the damage. The driver or one of the passengers jumps in your car and drives off. • If you’re bumped by another car, look around before you get out. Make sure there are other cars around, then check out the car that’s rear-ended you and who’s in it. If the situation makes you uneasy, stay in the car and insist on moving to a police station or busy, well-lighted area to exchange information. Be On The Lookout • If your car’s stolen, report it to the police immediately. Also, report abandoned cars to the local agency that handles removal. • When buying a used car from an individual or a dealer, make sure you have the proper titles, that the VIN number is intact, and the “federal sticker” is on the inside of the driver’s door. That sticker should match the VIN. • Suggest that any dealer, rental car agency, or auto repair shop you use offer auto theft prevention information in the waiting rooms. • If joyriding is a problem in your community, work to improve recreational programs and job opportunities for young people. ype here.
2010/2011 School Year Immunizations
5/12/2010
Dear Parents;
Attached please find the 2010 Preschool and Kindergarten letters concerning Immunization requirements. I must have an up to date copy of each child’s immunization record before the first day of school. Kindergarten students will need to receive their “Kindergarten Shots” if they have not already done so.
I will not be in the office over the summer break but we will be able to receive faxes and mail. I will check my email irregularly over the summer break. If you have any doubts about the immunization status of your child, I encourage you to check with your pediatrician.
I hope you have a blessed and restful summer! Remember the safety gear that goes with bikes and swimming. Keep those children in appropriate car safety seats. Remind them that Mrs. Talty is expecting to see their smiling faces in August!
Beverly Talty, R.N.
2010 Kindergarten letter
5/12/2010
Immaculate Conception Health Room May, 2010 Dear Parents; My name is Beverly Talty and I am the School Nurse for Immaculate Conception School. I look forward to seeing your child next year when Kindergarten begins. The state of Missouri has changed their requirements for children who will be Kindergarteners in the 2010/2011 school year. These students must now have 2 doses of Varicella (Chickenpox) vaccine before they begin Kindergarten. If the child has had Chickenpox disease we must have a written, signed statement from the doctor giving the date of disease. I would like to take this opportunity to remind you that I must have a copy of your child’s immunization record before he/she can be allowed to start school. You may send a copy to the school, fax it to us, or send it by email. I have placed my contact information below. You will also be receiving an emergency information form. We ask for this information so we can be prepared for any health issues that arise during the school term. If your child has any health concerns please let me know about those as soon as possible. Please come by or call anytime. I’m always happy to talk with you. Beverly Talty, R.N. Phone 417 881-7000 Fax 417 881-7087 btalty@scspk12.org
2010 Preschool Immunization letter
5/12/2010
Immaculate Conception Health Room May, 2010 Dear Parents; My name is Beverly Talty and I am the School Nurse for Immaculate Conception School. I look forward to seeing your child next year when Preschool begins. I would like to take this opportunity to remind you that I must have a copy of your child’s immunization record before he/she can be allowed to start school. You may send a copy to the school, fax it to us, or send it by email. I have placed my contact information below. You will also be receiving an emergency information form. We ask for this information so we can be prepared for any health issues that arise during the school term. If your child has any health concerns please let me know about those as soon as possible. Please come by or call anytime. I’m always happy to talk with you. Beverly Talty, R.N. Phone 417 881-7000 Fax 417 881-7087 btalty@scspk12.org
April 2010 newsletter
4/12/2010
April, 2010
Dear Parents;
Thank goodness for Spring! The warm weather, sunshine and lovely flowers are truly a blessing for us after the winter. If warmth and beauty are the upside, pollen must be the downside of spring. We’ve been seeing lots of spring allergies and the weatherman keeps reporting those increasing pollen counts. If your child is really bothered by the itchy, watery eyes and sniffles that go along with hayfever, please ask your doctor about it. A little treatment can go a long way to improving your child’s day!
Of course, spring can also bring severe weather to the Ozarks. Please take a minute to think about your tornado plan. Is the entrance to your “safe room” easily accessible, even in the middle of the night? This is a good time to remind the children about lightning safety. Do they know that metal baseball bats are very good conductors of electricity? Do they know about not sheltering under a tree in a thunderstorm? The Springfield/Greene county Department of health has 2 very good references for tornado and lightning safety. Their website is www.springfieldmo.gov
I read some statistics the other day that I want to share with you. They come from the Family Education Network and concern drug use and underage drinking. “In the next 24 hours, 15,006 American teens will use drugs for the first time.” “More than half of the nation’s 6th to 12th graders drink alcoholic beverages.” Wow! I have a 6th grader and the thought of her drinking now makes cold chills run down my spine. The question that went along with these statistics was as follows: Will your teen be one of them? I know from personal experience that talking with your children about alcohol and drug use isn’t easy. I also know that it’s vital. So, how do we reconcile these two things? Here are some things recommended by people who do this for a living.
First, look at the example you set for your children. We are still the most important role model for our children. That won‘t last forever, so use it while you can! Do your children see you being responsible about alcohol use? We really do have to practice what we preach if we want our kids to hear the preaching.
Second, ask your kids what they already know. Be prepared to listen and not condemn. If your child tells you about a friend who is using alcohol or drugs you will need to carefully help your child decide what to do. Panic and forbidding the friendship won’t help. Help your child learn how to refuse the offer of drugs or alcohol and how to stay safe. Make sure your child knows that you will come instantly and get them if they are somewhere unsafe and call. If you do have to pick them up, be sure you are supportive of them.
Finally, give them the facts they need to be safe. It’s OK to remind them that alcohol use is illegal at their age. The illegality, the “my parents would absolutely kill me” all are good reasons for children to present to their peers when invited to join in on alcohol or drug use. Give them some reasons to say no! Health concerns, religious or moral beliefs, not wanting to disappoint a coach all are reasons kids can use when they are saying no. Of course, avoidance of the situation is best but sometimes they’ll be caught by surprise. And, no, “everyone” isn’t drinking or using drugs. Remind them of that!
We’re almost at the end of the school year. Let’s move into summer in good health.
Beverly Talty, R.N.
March, 2010 newsletter
3/17/2010
March, 2010 Dear Parents; The calendar tells us that spring is right around the corner but the weather sure has me fooled! I’m ready for some warm, sunny weather. Many of us will move our exercise routines outdoors now and I’ve attached an exercise safety letter. This information is very kindly provided by Mr. Dwayne Doran, Director of Safety and Security for St. John’s. If you are reading this on the webpage there should (!) be a link to follow. If you received this in the mailbag, the letter is included. I’d like to thank Mr. Doran for letting me include his informative articles this year. Every one of them is packed full of good information! We’ve seen an increase in illnesses in most of our schools this month. Fevers and tummy bugs seem to predominate. Please remind your children of the need to practice good hand washing and cover their coughs and sneezes. I’ve seen that many of the local pharmacies are still offering H1N1 flu vaccinations. We were so blessed that the H1N1 flu wasn’t as bad as was feared but it’s still not too late to get a vaccination for your child or yourself. If you are the parent of a preschool child you have received a letter about the upcoming Amblyopia screening at all of our schools. This free program is provided by the Missouri Lion’s Eye Foundation. We are so blessed to be able to offer this to our families. The screenings will take place in March and April but to have your child screened you must return the permission form. Please call me or Mrs. Halter if you have any questions. This is the time of year to look at some safety gear for your children. A mouth guard is cheap protection for that expensive, orthodontist-enhanced smile. I know children like to “feel the wind in their hair” when on their bikes but a helmet is a must to protect that smart brain. Scooters and skateboards require elbow and knee pads in addition to helmets. Please look at the activities your child is involved in and update the safety gear as needed. Finally, take a look at the safety seat your child sits in. They’ve grown this year! Please make sure the seat is the correct size for their height and weight. Children (and adults) should ALWAYS be buckled up in the car and, of course, the back seat is the safest place for your child. Two of my children have gotten big enough to sit in front and it was nerve-wracking for the first few weeks! I know that when they’re as big as I am they are OK in the front seat but it still feels weird. Whatever fun things you have planned for spring I hope you are healthy, safe, and happy. God bless you and your family. Beverly Talty, R.N. School Nurse
Tips to Avoid Identity Theft
2/8/2010
This information comes to us courtesy of Mr. Dwayne Doran, Director of Safety and Security at St. John’s Hospital.
IdentityTruth is sharing its top 10 tips for avoiding ID theft in 2010.
IdentityTruth’s statistics point to a continual year-to-year increase in identity theft-related crimes, indicating that as criminals get more savvy, identity theft becomes easier to perpetrate. The best bet is for consumers to remain informed on how different life events – from shopping and traveling to starting college and getting married – increase their risk for ID theft.
“ID theft is about much more than simple credit card fraud. What many consumers may not realize is that at different points in one’s life, we are all made more vulnerable to identity theft related crime,” said Steven Domenikos, CEO of IdentityTruth. “Taking some simple steps now and being extra-vigilant can help people from becoming victims of identity theft.”
- When traveling: Know where your credit cards/debit cards are at all times – it’s easy to get distracted when on vacation and out of your usual routine. Double-check credit card receipts when traveling out of the country, as some receipts still print out the cardholder’s full name and credit card number. If you’re going to throw receipts in the trash, be sure to shred them.
- When shopping: Be careful when using ATMs: only use ATMs with monitoring cameras, such as those in bank lobbies. Avoid kiosk ATMs, those freestanding units often do not have cameras and are statistically more likely to be infected by skimmers (electronic devices that allow thieves to record account and PIN numbers). “Shoulder Surfing” can also be a problem at crowded stores, so don’t be afraid to question someone that is standing too close. When making purchases online, look for a familiar logo that indicates that the site is deemed secure.
- When filing taxes: Check with the Better Business Bureau to determine the creditability of your tax preparer before you entrust them with access to your personal information. Beware of calls “from” the IRS: if you receive a phone call from the IRS asking for personal information, hang up, because it’s a scam. Also, the IRS does NOT email taxpayers: if you receive emails pretending to be from the IRS asking for your personal information, this is also a scam. Don’t use online filing programs (make sure the tax filing software resides on your desktop) – online filing programs are easily penetrated by identity thieves, and sensitive information could end up on countless other servers. And finally, protect your desktop: make sure your computer has the latest antivirus and spyware to protect you from invasion.
- When getting married: For women – definitively make the decision to either keep your maiden name or assume your spouse’s name – using both leaves room for error, as it would be difficult to keep track of where you’re using one versus the other. Keep your marriage license and other personal documents locked in a safe and secure
- place. Make sure your SSN does not appear on the marriage license, and decide how you will filling for taxes (jointly or separately) and file early with the correct name.
- When starting college: Almost half of all college students receive credit card applications on a daily or weekly basis. Many of these students throw out card applications without destroying them – be sure to destroy yours. Almost 50 percent of students have had grades posted by Social Security number – when you go to the security office to get your student ID, be sure to ask the school to not use your social security number as your college ID number.
- With consumer electronics: Never store identifying names, companies, or login information on your cell phone. If you lose your cell phone, all this information can be easily extracted off your SIM Card and used to access your personal information. If you lose your cell phone, contact your provider immediately to report the loss. IdentityTruth’s research shows reported cases of stolen computers have more than doubled over 2008 – have your laptop engraved with identifying information, as research shows that thieves are then less likely to steal them.
- When using social networking sites: With millions of people using social networking sites like Facebook and MySpace – and sharing sensitive information such as their full name, date of birth and address information - there are countless opportunities for identity thieves. Individuals should set restrictions on their profiles so that only friends can view their information, and should delete history/cookies if accessing those sites through public computers.
- When a loved one passes away: Although it may seem unthinkable, statistics show that identity thieves prey on the sick or deceased (known as “ghosting”) due to an increased likelihood that the theft will go undetected. Notify the Social Security Administration of a death at 800-722-1213. The SSA maintains a master file that is used by all the CRAs before issuing credit. Close all bank and credit accounts and remove the deceased’s name from all joint accounts, and notify credit reporting agencies of the death.
- The basics: Write “see id” on the back of each credit card and demand that the recipient verify your identity. Frequently look over your credit reports- question all suspicious activities. Before and after you use your credit card, be sure to cover the numbers with your hand- you never know who may be watching. Shred all credit card applications that come in via mail.
- Consider signing up for an ID theft monitoring service: Identity theft is America’s fastest growing crime. Your security goes well beyond your credit report. Identity thieves can apply for government benefits, receive medical care, obtain driver’s licenses and jobs all in your name. ID theft monitoring services provides alerts beyond what shows up on your credit report; when considering an ID theft monitoring services, comparison shop to find the one that provides the greatest value.
Children's Health Forum Program
2/6/2010
Dear Parents;
I have received a short notification of an upcoming Program that some of you may want to attend.
It is a part of the Children’s Health Forum series presented by St. John’s. It is called “Just Grow Up!” For Fathers and Sons Here is the program description from the flyer that I received:
Your son is getting older and experiencing some changes. He will likely have questions that need answers. St. John’s pediatrician Bernard Griesemer, M.D. has the latest information geared for guys 9-13 years old about what to expect during this time and how your son can develop into a strong young man. GUYS ONLY!
Are you a single mom? Call 417-820-3677 to find out how your son can attend this guys only event.
This program is free and open to the public. It is being held Tuesday February 9, 2010 at St. John’s Hammon’s Heart Institute from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Please call 417-888-8888 or 800-909-8326 for more information or to register. They They ask for registration because they provide refreshments and do drawings for door prizes.
I have some flyers for this event and you are welcome to one! Please just come by and ask.
Here is the calendar for upcoming programs in the Children’s Health Forum series:
April 13, 2010 “Just B’tween Us Girls” For Mothers and Daughters
June 8, 2010 Understanding Your Child: The Teenage Years
October 12, 2010 “Just B’tween Us Girls” For Mothers and Daughters
The above phone numbers are for information and registration for any of these programs.
I hope you have a good weekend and that we don’t get too much snow Monday. (I know the children wish for FEET of snow. Ah! To by young again!)
Sincerely,
Beverly Talty, R.N.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
1/6/2010
Please see the attached Powerpoint for information about preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning. this PowerPoint is courtesy of Ron Bouse at St. John’s Hospital and is used with his kind permission. Beverly Talty, R.N.
