Accident Procedures / Policy

click here to download the school’s Accident Report Form

Safety of pupils and staff is a priority for the Board of Management, and robust measures have been put in place to ensure that no children or staff are put at risk.

• A comprehensive school Safety Statement was prepared by the school community whereby all  hazards were identified and remedial measures were outlined, if required. A review audit is conducted annually.
• The school is insured by Allianz and a Pupils Personal Accident Insurance Policy (a 24 hour policy), is in place for all children.
• The provision of specialist First Aid Training for staff has been identified as a priority by Board of Management. Staff have been trained in basic first aid during the school year 2015/16.
• Each classroom teacher regularly instructs his/her class on issues relating to safety in the class/yard. Dangerous practices such as throwing stones, running fast in the Infant areas, engaging in “horseplay”, fighting etc. are subject to severe sanctions (see School Anti-Bullying Policy /Code of Behaviour).  The Principal gives regular reminders at tionól (assembly).
• Certain procedures are in place in the event of accidents. (See procedures)
• There are at least four teachers and five S.N.A.s on yard duty at any one time.

General Procedures for Accident/Injury

Minor Accident/Injury

The injured party is initially looked after by the teacher on yard duty.  If deemed necessary, the child will be taken to the First Aid Station (Servery), where an S.N.A. will attend to the injured pupil. No medicines are administered, but cuts are cleaned with water and antiseptic wipes and bandages/plasters applied if deemed appropriate. The use of plastic gloves is advised at all times. Parents are notified as a matter of protocol either at the time of the accident if deemed necessary by the class teacher/Principal or by meeting parent or in Homework journal when going home that evening.

More Serious Accidents/Injuries

If considered safe to do so, the injured party is taken to the First Aid Station. Parents/guardians are immediately informed, particularly if there is a suspicion of broken bones/head or eye injuries. The child is kept under intense observation until parents /guardians arrive, with the emphasis on making the child as comfortable and as settled as possible. Parents are kept informed of a developing situation.

Very Serious Injuries

In the event of a very serious injury, parents/guardians are immediately contacted. If the considered opinion of the staff is that immediate professional help is required, an ambulance is called. Parents are kept informed of developing situations.

NOTE:            It is strongly recommended by the Board of  Management that a child recovering within one of the above categories and who presents at school (e.g. in plaster or on crutches) will remain under supervision in the First Aid Station during break times.  Parents of any child who returns to school following a surgical procedure or any hospital stay MUST provide the Board of Management with a written confirmation of fitness for attendance at school.

Categories of Injury / School Procedures

Minor Cuts and Bruises

Method:

In all cases of injury it is understood that there are two teachers on yard duty and five S.N.A.s.   If the teacher on Yard Duty deems it necessary, the injured pupil is taken to the First Aid Station

• Clean around cuts, cleaning from the center outwards.
• Gloves are used at all times to reduce risk of spread of infection.
• A check is carried out to locate small bodies which may be embedded in the wound.
• Plaster, gauze is placed on the wound, if necessary.
• S.N.A. observation is maintained followed by teacher observation in classroom.
• Children are advised to show/tell parents.
• In sports, appropriate footwear and clothing must be worn.

Sprains/Bruises

Method:

• In the event of a sprain/bruise, the process of rest, ice, compress and elevate is implemented (RICE).
• If in doubt, parent/s is contacted.
• Teacher observation is maintained.

Faints and Shocks

Method:

• Lie the casualty down.
• Raise the legs above the level of the heart.
• Loosen any tight clothing.
• Ensure there is fresh air.
• Keep crowds away.
• Reassure casualty when they recover.
• Contact parents.
• The event is subsequently recorded in the Accident Book

Severe Bleeding

Method:

• Act instantly – Go, Go, Go!
• Set or lie the injured party down.
• Press down on wound using gloves.
• Lift (if possible) the injured part above the level of the heart.
• Put a clean dressing over the wound and secure it firmly with a bandage.
• If blood shows through the dressing then place another one over the first and bandage  firmly.
• Treat for shock.
• GET HELP!
• Contact parents.
• If very serious contact casualty immediately.
• Record in accident book.

Burns/Scalds

Method:

• Immediately remove child from danger area.
• Cool burnt area with cold running water.
• Remove rings etc. and other tight fitting accessories.
• Do not remove objects stuck to skin.
• In the event of a minor burn use a special burn gauze / burneze

Unconsciousness

Method:

• Ring for medical help.
• Place child in recovery position.
• Ring for parents.
• Check for broken bones, neck or back injury.
• If subject is not breathing, artificial respiration is applied.
• Other children are kept away.

Stings/Bites

Method:

• Vinegar is used for wasp stings.
• Bread soda is used for bee stings.
• If case is serious/ parent/s are contacted.

The First Aid Policy is based on collective teacher input. The teacher on yard duty is automatically assisted by others in the case of a serious injury.

Record Keeping

All accidents / injuries are recorded in the Accident Report Book, which is kept in the Administration office. One Accident Report Book covers all children in the school. Teachers are encouraged to keep a separate copy of accident report forms relating to injuries sustained by children in their class. The accident report form lists date and time of accident, witnesses, nature of injuries, a brief description of the circumstance of the accident, procedures followed by staff etc. (See Accident Report Form).    Very serious injuries will be notified to the Schools Insurers on the special Incident Report Form.   Relevant medical information on all pupils is obtained at time of enrolment on the school’s enrolment form.  If necessary an Acute Medical Form is also completed. This requests parents to list more detail of the child’s medical condition. Where emergency medication needs to be administered the school has a full policy relating to the Administration of Medicines.

 

click here to download the school’s Accident Report Form