Elementary School Nurse

Mrs. Misty Stephens, RN, M.Ed, NCSN, PCCN

Telephone: (814) 255-8771

Fax: (814) 255-8793

Hello, my name is Mrs. Misty Stephens and I am the elementary school nurse here at Westmont Elementary! I am so excited to care for your child during their school day. I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself. I live in Westmont with my husband Mallie, three daughters that attend the school district (so I am right there beside you when it comes to concerns for our children's health in school). As far as my nursing background-I graduated with my Bachelor of Science in nursing from Mount Aloysius College and have been a nurse in the hospital setting for many years floating throughout the hospital system. Since starting at Westmont, I have earned my school nurse certificate and then went on to get my Master of Education in School Health Services. I am the only school nurse in the area that tested and obtained my national board certification in school nursing in March of 2023! I am certified to teach CPR/first aid, ACLS, and PALS courses. Many of you know that I love being part of our community. I am a Westmont multi-level girl scout troop leader, service unit manager of our area, PTO and HAT board member, and a church youth club volunteer, Sunday school teacher, and deacon. I welcome all parents to feel free to contact me any time there is a question, concern, or new information regarding your child’s medical needs. I promise to give the students the quality care they deserve and look forward to establishing a relationship with you and your child.

A FEW REMINDERS:

Medication forms must be turned in with any prescription or over-the-counter medication. Medications should never be delivered to school by the student. Students may not carry any type of mediation with them (except inhalers or epi-pens).

If your child has asthma or a life-threatening allergy, please have an asthma action plan filled out or a food allergy action plan.

IMMUNIZATIONS: If students are not up to date on vaccines or do not have appropriate documentation of exemption or catch-up schedule, the student can be exempt from school after 5 days. If you have questions or concerns, please contact me for further information.

Immunizations

(Required immunizations as per Pennsylvania Department of Health and Westmont Hilltop School District)

The following immunizations are required for attendance in all grades:

4 doses of tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (1 dose on or after the 4th birthday)
4 doses of polio (4th dose on or after the 4th birthday and at least 6 months after the previous dose was given)
3 doses of hepatitis B
2 doses of measles, mumps, rubella
2 doses of varicella (chickenpox) or evidence of immunity

Mandated Elementary Health Screenings

*Height/Weight/Vision: every grade level

*Dental: upon entry/1st & 3rd grade

*Physical: upon entry/1st & 6th grade

*Hearing: K, 1, 2 & 3

*Scoliosis: 6th grade

Diabetes education

Act 117 - Parental Education of Type 1 Diabetes

Staying Healthy

1. Hand washing is the single most effective way to kill germs, prevent their spread and keep from getting sick. Wash often with soap and water for 20 seconds, or the time it takes to sing Happy Birthday. https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing

2. If soap and water is not available, use an effective hand sanitizer.

3. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

4. Use respiratory etiquette: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when you cough or sneeze, throw the tissue away, and wash your hands or use hand sanitizer.

5. Disinfect frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, faucets, phones, keyboards, and toys.

6. Avoid sharing food, cups, and eating utensils, especially with those who are sick.

7. Avoid close contact with those who are ill.

8. Make sure your child has a regular bedtime and is getting enough sleep. Lack of sleep impairs the immune system’s ability to fight infection.

9. Make sure your child is well nourished, well hydrated and has breakfast every morning. Keep the immune system healthy by eating plenty of colorful fruits and vegetables (they are loaded with vitamin C,) healthy proteins, and whole grain breads and cereals. Avoid excess sugar! Make sure your child dresses appropriately for the weather and for outdoor activities.

Forms and Policies