First Aid Centre

We hope everyone is enjoying a fantastic start to the new school year! A very warm welcome to our new Year 7 students, who have already attended school camp. If you provided medication for your child to take on camp and have not yet collected it, please come to the First Aid Centre to pick it up at your earliest convenience.

Why Can’t the School Nurse Give Panadol?

One of the most common questions we are asked is “Why can’t you just give Panadol?”.

According to the Department of Education policy, schools must not administer medications such as Panadol as a first aid strategy, as it may mask the signs and symptoms of a more serious illness or injury.

Exception: If a parent/guardian supplies the medication to the school and completes a Medication Authority Form, the medication can then be administered as directed.

Drink, Drink, Drink!

We encourage all students to bring their own water bottle to school every day. Staying hydrated is especially important during the hot weather at this time of year. Dehydration can lead to headaches and dizziness — both of which are often preventable by drinking enough water throughout the day.

Medical Conditions & Action Plans

At the beginning of each school year, students diagnosed with the following conditions must provide updated documentation:

• Anaphylaxis

• Asthma

• Severe allergies

• Diabetes

• Epilepsy

Please ensure the relevant Action Plan (completed by a Medical Practitioner within the last 12 months, in line with Department of Education guidelines) is supplied to the First Aid Centre, along with any required medication.

Action Plans are available:

• From the First Aid Centre

• Via the “Documents” section on Compass

If your child’s allergy requires treatment with an antihistamine, please ensure this medication is also provided to the First Aid Centre.

If you have any student health concerns, questions, or medical updates, please contact us.

Melissa & Eva

College Nurses

firstaid@wantirnacollege.vic.edu.au