CSN Mental Health & Behavioral Support Flashcards

A student discloses to the school nurse that they have been having thoughts of suicide. The nurse's FIRST action is:

Answer: Conduct a safety assessment and ensure the student is not left alone

Conducting an immediate safety assessment and maintaining supervision of the student are the first priorities when suicidal ideation is disclosed.

Which screening tool is commonly used by school nurses to identify depression in adolescents?

Answer: Patient Health Questionnaire for Adolescents (PHQ-A)

The PHQ-A is a validated, widely used screening tool for depression specifically adapted for adolescents in school health settings.

A teacher refers a student for repeated school refusal and somatic complaints with no identifiable medical cause. The school nurse's BEST response is:

Answer: Conduct a comprehensive assessment including psychosocial history and collaborate with the school counselor

Somatic complaints without organic cause often have a psychosocial basis; a comprehensive assessment and multidisciplinary collaboration are essential.

The school nurse is developing a support plan for a student with ADHD. Which intervention is MOST within the school nurse's scope?

Answer: Coordinating administration of prescribed ADHD medications and communicating with parents and teachers about behavioral patterns

The school nurse's role in ADHD management includes safe medication administration, monitoring for side effects, and serving as a communication bridge between home, school, and healthcare providers.

A student is exhibiting signs of an acute anxiety attack including rapid breathing, chest tightness, and trembling. After ruling out a medical emergency, the nurse's BEST intervention is:

Answer: Use grounding techniques and calm reassurance while monitoring vital signs

Grounding techniques (e.g., 5-4-3-2-1 sensory exercise) and calm reassurance are evidence-based first-line interventions for acute anxiety.

Under FERPA and HIPAA, when may a school nurse share a student's mental health information with a teacher without parental consent?

Answer: When it is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or others in an emergency

FERPA permits disclosure of student records without consent when there is a legitimate safety emergency requiring immediate action to protect the student or others.