The school nurse is speaking with the parent of a fourth grade student about a bed bug that was found on the child's sweater. The parent confirms that their home is infested but that the issue is being resolved. Which is the best action by the nurse?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Although full-blown bed bug infestations are uncommon in a school setting, a bed bug brought in on the clothing or possessions of one student could easily "hitch" a ride to another student's home and cause an outbreak there. The most important measure to prevent bed bugs from infesting other students' homes is to prevent the bugs from entering the school in the first place. Laundering clothing in hot water and using the highest temperature setting on a dryer will kill any bed bugs attached to clothes. The clothing should then be stored in tightly sealed plastic bags to prevent additional infestation (Option A). (Option B) A professional pest control company should be brought in to evaluate the classroom/school for bed bugs; treatment with an insecticide may or may not be necessary. (Option C) Sending letters home to parents is premature at this point. After professional pest control personnel evaluate the classroom/school, letters can be sent to inform parents of the findings and any precautions that should be taken. (Option D) Sending the child home is unnecessary and may be perceived as punitive and stigmatizing. Bed bugs do not inhabit humans; this child is not "infested" (seen in children with head lice). Educational objective: The most important measures to prevent bed bugs from getting onto apparel is to launder clothes in hot water, dry them using the highest temperature setting on a dryer, and then store them in tightly sealed plastic bags. This will help to prevent additional bed bug infestation and transportation to other locations.

The School Nurse Is Speaking with the Parent of a Fourth