Greetings to all Polly Fox Students and Parents:
My name is Jeanette Arnsby and I am so happy to be the new school nurse at Polly Fox Academy. I came from the Toledo Lucas County Health Department where I spent two years working in the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program. I still help out regularly at the Health Department in various departments when the need arises.
Since the issue of lead poisoning is still a fresh subject for me I want to spend some time talking to you about the subject.
LEAD POISONING * INFO FOR PARENTS
Lead poisoning is an important issue because it can adversely affect a rapidly growing child. The health effects include:
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decreased intelligence
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delayed growth
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impaired hearing
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attention deficit disorders
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hyperactivity
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aggressive behavior
At higher levels of exposure lead poisoning can cause:
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mental retardation
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convulsions
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coma
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death
The only way to determine if your child has been exposed to lead is by having a blood test. The Toledo Lucas County Health Department offers lead testing free of charge Monday thru Friday.
To protect your child from lead poisoning:
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Get your child tested.
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Clean your floors, windows and other surfaces with a wet cleaning method.
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Use a HEPA filter vaccuum.
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Prevent your child from putting non-food items in his or her mouth.
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Do not remove lead paint yourself. Hire a licensed lead abatement contractor.
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If you are exposed to lead dust through work or a hobby, make sure you clean up before entering your home.
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Have your water tested.
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Have your family eat a well rounded, healthy diet.
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WASH HANDS !!!
If you have any further questions please feel free to call me anytime.
Sincerely,
Jeanette Arnsby, RN
Health Center nurse: 419 720-4534
Polly Fox Academy
