BLS Nurse Blog
APRIL IS STRESS AWARENESS MONTH
Stress is the natural reaction your body has when changes or challenges occur. It can result in many different physical, emotional and behavioral responses. Everyone experiences stress from time to time. You can’t avoid it. ~ The Cleveland Clinic
Stress Awareness Month is a timely reminder that: CARING FOR YOURSELF IS JUST AS IMPORTANT AS CARING FOR OTHERS.
As school nurses, you show up each day ready to support students’ physical and emotional needs—often putting your own well-being on the back burner. The pace is fast, the needs are real, and the expectations are high. It’s meaningful work, but it can also be heavy.
This month, you are challenged to take a few intentional moments to check in with yourself. Whether it’s stepping away for a quick walk, taking a few deep breaths between students, connecting with a colleague, or simply acknowledging a challenging day—SMALL ACTS OF SELF-CARE MATTER.
Remember, supporting your own well-being strengthens your ability to continue supporting the students and communities who rely on you. You are doing important work, and taking care of yourself is part of that work.
CAMP TAMARACK MEDICATIONS
Reminder for elementary nurses:
For non-prescription medication that is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (melatonin, vitamins, supplements), a written order from the student’s prescriber must be provided that includes the name of the student, medication, dosage, method of administration, frequency of administration, a statement that the medication must be administered while the student is at camp, any other special instructions, and the signature of the prescriber.
COMMUNICATION CHANGE
Due to increasing security concerns, text messaging is no longer an approved method of communication for BLS employees. Until a secure alternative is identified, fax machines will be used as a temporary communication method. Please click here for more information on proper fax machine etiquette.
EDUCATIONAL OFFERINGS
Randall Children’s Educational Offerings, Updates, and Grand Rounds
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April 2nd – Food Allergy Updates
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May 7th – Trends in Pediatric Burns
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June 4th – Bioethics Based Approach to Medical Child Abuse
Amanda Scully, MD, CARES NW
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June 18th – RCH Pediatric Cardiology
Niki Tucker, MD
MEASLES
Oregon is on track for its worst measles year in decades. Here’s why. – oregonlive.com
SAFETY
DCHS Substance Abuse Overdose Response Briefing 3-20-26
WILDFIRE SEASON
From Paul Dean – BLS COO
As we enter wildfire season, it is the district’s responsibility to ensure the safety of our students, staff, and facilities. We will take both proactive and responsive actions when wildfires impact school grounds and operations.
At the district level, our Communications team will provide timely updates when wildfires impact school operations, including modifications to outdoor activities, changes to the school day, or other operational adjustments. Our goal is to ensure clear, consistent communication so that students, staff, and families can respond appropriately to changing wildfire conditions.
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For staff, it is equally important to have a personal preparedness plan in place. We strongly encourage all staff to sign up for emergency alerts through Deschutes County and/or download the Watch Duty app, enabling notifications for areas surrounding your home. These tools provide early warnings, including “Be Ready” (Level 1) and “Be Set” (Level 2) notices, which are critical for preparation.
If a Level 3 (Go Now) evacuation is issued for your neighborhood during the workday, you should communicate directly with your supervisor or administrator. We are committed to supporting staff in these situations. As long as student safety and supervision are maintained, we will arrange coverage so you can return home as soon as possible. You may record leave on your timesheet in accordance with district procedures.
DATES TO REMEMBER
Upcoming Nurse Events/Meetings
| DATE | EVENT | TIME | LOCATION |
| 4/15/26 | Nurse Meeting | 2-330 | TBD |
| April 10, 2026 | June 12, 2026 |
| May 8, 2026 |
