As a child, I spent much of my leisure time in the scouting program. Scouting prepares boys to become men, equipping them with skills that can be applied both in the military and in their adult lives. The motto is so important because it reflects our education in the art of awareness, nature, and emergency care. Along with this, we learned how to survive and cook in the outdoors, both as a group and as individuals.
My grandson starred in a movie entitled Lost on a Mountain in Maine last year, based on the true story of a 13-year-old who was lost for 10–11 days on a mountain that defied rescue teams. It was his skill, courage, and faith that led to a successful outcome.
At this time of year, we should focus on the students heading back to school. Education and preparation are key to the best practices we can offer to those who trust us with their medical care. I have always considered the use of forms—both physical and online—in my practice to inform patients about various aspects of their care, including prevention and the necessary knowledge to Be Prepared. I believe it behooves every PA, NP, and physician to create these lists with the help of staff; the more the merrier.
What would I like young people and their guardians to know as they start the school year? I will mention only a moderate number here, guided by my past experiences communicating with busy professional colleagues.
When I was growing up, things were quite different from today, which brings many new concerns. As parents, PAs, and NPs, we have a responsibility to anticipate issues and problems that may impact the health and safety of our patients—to Lead the Way, as our U.S. Rangers say. Please make this your personal motto, as it will reflect how you are perceived by your patients and influence your outcomes.
What do I see as key concerns? Some require little explanation or discussion but depend on your understanding of the Standards of Medical Care, not personal philosophy or politics. The first subject: immunizations and the proper timing of flu shots. Each school district and state has different laws, so familiarize yourself with yours.
Let me tackle a few more: the annual H&P. Remember, this may be the only time a patient sees a healthcare provider all year. Do not be constrained by a ten-minute rule per patient. Be a real HCP, not one frightened by administrative threats of becoming substandard or sloppy. Your career and reputation are worth more.
Consider vision and hearing in your exam, and help students with poor learning skills by addressing these needs. Provide information on nutrition, sexually transmitted diseases and prevention, and healthy sleep habits that encourage at least 8–9 hours of rest—without a screen in the room, since blue light can disrupt sleep for an additional two hours. In today’s world, add guidance on violence prevention, escape and evasion, and suicide prevention, with strong recommendations to see a mental health professional when appropriate.
I once read an article on stranger danger and bullying. Today, children face the added trauma of fearing school violence and other dangers. Be aware that this trauma exists across all age groups. This is why we must address it in our offices and screen for the mental health issues such anxiety produces.
There are countless issues a dedicated HCP can address. If you’re feeling creative and committed to community, consider offering your expertise to the local newspaper. Write a monthly article for a “PA or NP Corner” at no cost, simply requesting that your name, professional title, and office address appear at the conclusion. What a tremendous forum for education and prevention—and what a way to build a first-class practice.
In closing, one last suggestion: provide a clear plan for emergency contact and preparedness. I had a friend, a 26-year-old nurse anesthetist, who was flying overseas. She was a severe asthmatic and kept her inhaler in checked luggage. She developed a high-grade airway obstruction, likely due to an allergic reaction. Without her inhaler, she experienced worsening shortness of breath and, fully aware of her deteriorating pulmonary function, was literally frightened to death. This young professional died on that flight. The solution would have been simple: carry her inhaler in her carry-on bag.
Have a plan for emergency medications that includes the school nurse and provides the opportunity to save a child’s life. Maintain a list of health resources—government counseling programs, protection services, legal offices, the police department, and local hospitals.
No need for a follow-up article; this one, like my weight, has already been severely reduced. Enjoy the school year—and don’t forget to purchase your personal liability insurance policy. It will have your back throughout your practice career.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How can clinicians reduce liability risk during back-to-school visits? By performing comprehensive annual physicals that include vision, hearing, nutrition, sleep habits, and mental health screening, clinicians demonstrate thorough care and reduce malpractice exposure.
- Why should PAs and NPs document immunizations and preventive care in detail? Accurate, timely documentation ensures compliance with school and state health laws, protects against claims of negligence, and provides evidence of risk management best practices.
- What role does emergency preparedness play in clinical risk management? Educating patients about keeping emergency medications accessible and maintaining contact protocols helps prevent avoidable adverse events and reduces professional liability for the provider.
Written For CM&F By: Robert M. Blumm, PA, DFAAPA, PA-C Emeritus
CM&F Clinical Advisor
