Classroom and playground accidents should be handled with common sense and as a substitute teacher you should become familiar with the specific policies and procedures in the schools where you teach. The following are a few basic guidelines that will apply in most situations.
- Students with minor injuries should be sent to the office or school nurse to receive first aid.
- Never give students any kind of medication including cough drops or over the counter pain relievers. Only the school nurse or other designated personnel should administer first aid or dispense medication.
- Learn and follow school policies for handling situations involving blood/bodily fluids. Do not allow students who are bleeding to participate in class activities until the bleeding has stopped and the wound has been cleaned and completely covered.
- Do not move a severely injured student or leave your class unattended to get help. Send a student or another teacher to get help when needed.
- Report all accidents and injuries, even minor ones, to the office and in your report for the permanent teacher. Some schools may have accident report forms that you will also need to fill out.
What other suggestions do you have in case of a medical emergency?