HEALTH
SCREENING
Vision
Screening: Screening consists of the administration of a
test for distance visual acuity and the observation of children for
symptoms of visual defects. Use of the Snellen eye chart and
Titmus Vision Screener are screening methods, not diagnostic tests. This is generally accepted as an effective way to identify
children with gross eye defects. Examinations
beyond the scopc of screening are the responsibility and prerogative of
the parent. Screening will be done in grades K, 2 and 5 and
on
new students to the district. Referrals will be made if the
visual screening result is 20/50 or above in students in KG and if the
result is 20/40 or above if in 1st grade or higher. Referrals
will also be made if there is failure in the amblyopic test. If a
parent needs help financially in order to get a professional exam, the
school nurse will refer the parent to resources available.
Dental
Screening: General health, well being, and personal
appearance may be affected adversely by the neglect of dental
health. Annual screening will be done in grades K, 2 and 5 and on
new students to the district. The school nurse or health
technician will observe for signs of oral disease such as inflamed
gums, large cavities or missing portions of teeth, irregular teeth, and
growths on lips and mouth. If necessary, the nurse will then
refer the student for dental services. If the student does not
have dental insurance and is unable to pay for a dental exam,
parents will be given the opportunity to fill out an application to the
Boise School District Dental Clinic.
Scoliosis
Screening: Scoliosis is a spine deformity characterized by
lateral and rotational curvature of the spine. The deformity
usually develops during the preadolescent years. In most patients
the cause is still unknown and thus the deformity is labeled
"idiopathic". The purpose of school screening is to detect
scoliosis at an early stage when the deformity is mild and likely to
otherwise go unnoticed. It is at an early stage that bracing
programs may be effective in halting progression of the deformity and
thus prevent the need of surgical treatment. Girls in 5th and 7th
grade and boys in 8th grade will be screened. The screening will
always include the forward bending test.