Managing Medical Emergencies in Schools

Medical Emergencies In Schools

Medical emergencies are impromptu situations that occur regardless of preparedness’ levels and are commonly occurring in schools (HealthyChildren 2022; Nduka Ijeoma, 2021)⁠. Studies have revealed that in emergency situations, 44% panicked and 46% simply had no idea of what needs to be done(Hammett, 2020)⁠.Emergencies are bound to occur in schools, as the environment holds a unique population within a time frame (most of their daytime). These unique population are vulnerable to injuries and ailments ranging from mild to severe hence, schools must be prepared to prevent and respond effectively to school emergencies with first – aid care, regardless of the presence or absence of a health professional(Qureshi et al., 2018 ; Masih et al., 2014; Olympia et al., 2005)⁠. Many emergencies result from injuries acquired during play in schools(Taklual et al., 2020)⁠. Many scholars have opined that injuries are the leading cause or morbidity and mortality in world today, particularly in the low and middle income countries(Vos et al., 2016)⁠.It is noteworthy that majority of the injuries occuring among children are directly attributable to their physical activities and 10 - 25% of which occur during school hours(Ezeonu et al., 2017; Spinks et al., 2006)⁠. In addition to the incidences of injuries, sub – Saharan African countries have recorded sudden presentation of tropical diseases among children and while at school(Chukwuocha et al., 2009)⁠. Several cases of Malaria, diarrhoea, helminthiasis, cough, flu, typhoid, Scabies, STI were found as common emergencies while children are at school(Nduka Ijeoma, 2021)⁠.

Schools, therefore play a significant role in addressing emergencies, as they are a structured learning centre, which holds children for a significant amount of time, engaging them in diverse activities ranging from physical, outdoor and mental exercises(Prasla Munira & Prasla Shameer, 2011)⁠. Early Childhood Care and Development Education (ECCDE) in 2018 records that 7.2 million children were found attending early childhood programs in a school setting and 22.7 million children are enrolled in the public elementary schools in Nigeria (Statista, 2022)⁠. Once schools are in session, about 60% of Nigerian children are in school at any time(WorldBank, 2022)⁠. During emergencies, both students and staff might be at risk, therefore preparedness is key in handling such situations, but is that the case of in the Nigerian school context? Ogbe, (2019)⁠ reveals in his study, that most schools in Nigeria are not prepared for emergencies.The Federal Ministry of Education in Nigeria instituted a National School Health Policy in 2006, which states that a healthful school environment (physical, biological and socio-cultural) is a major determinant of health and greatly influences the individual level of intellectual growth and development. Having a safe and healthful environment in schools is an integral part of the success of a school’s goal in raising well-educated students(Policy, 2006)⁠. The onus therefore lies with the school to make safety and wellbeing of children/pupils as well as staff their priority, with focus on the prevention of accidents and being well equipped in tackling medical emergencies, upon its incidence(Ezeonu et al., 2017)⁠.