you may be repelled by finding several cockroaches, but this does not create a public
health problem.
b. When examining the house, also be alert to possible safety problems: fire
hazards, the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning, empty self-locking refrigerators on
the premises and dangerous weeds and plants are common examples of hazards to
look for. If children live in an unsafe or unsanitary home, you might have to refer the
problem to the community health nurse.
c. There is a fine line between what you consider an inadequate standard of
living and an actual public health hazard. Because of this, you must exercise common
sense and objectivity in forming a judgment.
Section III. PUBLIC SCHOOLS
4-13. HEALTH PROBLEMS IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Health problems in public schools resemble the problems in childcare centers
due to the common nature of the two institutions. These problems focus on the
prevention and control of childhood diseases and accident avoidance measures. As
with child care centers, the preventive medicine specialist (91S) conducts the inspection
to determine if hazardous conditions exist and to recommend improvements. Also, as
with child care centers, the preventive medicine specialist frequently works with the
community health nurse. The community health nurse focuses on childhood disease
control and other health issues, such as vision and hearing tests.
4-14. GENERAL AREAS TO INSPECT
When inspecting public schools, pay attention to the following areas:
a. Emergency Measures. First, emergency evacuation plans should exist and
second, drills conducted to ensure children are familiar with the plan. Third, the school
should be capable of providing emergency medical care and have appropriate supplies
and facilities for this purpose.
b. Condition of the Building. The building should be in good repair and clean
without evidence of rodent or insect infestation. Paint should be nontoxic and lead free.
Classrooms should have adequate illumination and floors should be easily cleanable
and have non-slippery surfaces. Traffic in the area of the building and in neighboring
streets should be controlled with low speed limits clearly marked.
c. Washroom Facilities. Bathrooms and toilet facilities are to be kept clean
and in good repair with separate facilities for boys and girls. There should be enough
toilets and washbasins to accommodate the child load. Exhaust should be provided
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