 Questions and Answers!
Your Training Resource
Issue 8-2, February-March 2005
In Sickness and Health: Strep Throat
What are common symptoms of strep throat? Sore throat, fever, and sometimes nausea and vomiting
How is strep throat diagnosed? The doctor can swab the back of the throat to check for strep bacteria.
What is the treatment for strep throat? Treatment generally involves 7-10 days of oral antibiotic, usually penicillin.
Should the child with strep throat be excluded from childcare? The child should be excluded until at least 24 hours after the antibiotic treatment is begun.
Safety First: Art Supplies Safety
What agency checks art supplies for safety? The Art and Creative Materials Institute (ACMI) conducts a certification program to test and label art supplies.
What is a safe way to make paper mache? Use black and white newspaper and library or white paste.
What kind of glue is safest for children? Polyvinyl (PVA) white glue.
How can you keep paints from becoming contaminated? Pour the amount needed for that day into a separate container. Keep unused paint covered and in the original container.
Nutrition Action: Feeding children with Special Needs
What are common areas of nutrition-related concerns? Texture modifications, appropriate weight gain, and food allergies.
How may physical conditions affect children’s weight? Conditions such as cleft palate may make eating difficult. Medications may affect appetite or eating habits.
How can I help the child’s development of eating skills? Allow children extra time to eat; make sure he is positioned comfortably; provide adaptive equipment if needed; respect the child’s food preferences and eating habits.
Medicine Chest: Toothbrushing in Childcare
How often should children brush their teeth? At least twice each day.
What is plaque? Plaque is a clear, thin, sticky film of bacteria that lives on teeth and gums.
What kind of toothbrush is best? For young children, choose child-sized toothbrushes with soft bristles.
How should toothbrushes be stored? Store toothbrushes upright, in a covered container, and in a way that prevents them from touching each other.
Staff Health: The B Vitamins
How many vitamins are included in the B-complex group? There are 8 vitamins, including thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, B6, folate, B12, biotin, and pantothenic acid.
Does the body store B vitamins? B vitamins are water soluble, so they are eliminated each day in urine. Your body needs to replace B vitamins daily.
|