Arcadia Unified's Nursing Team Tackles National Fetanyl Crisis Head-On

 

AUSD Nursing Team and Law Enforcement Collaborate in Critical Meeting

(Photo Courtesy of Erica Newkirk)

 

In the face of a growing national fentanyl epidemic, the Arcadia Unified School District’s nursing team is taking a proactive approach to ensure the health and safety of students by remaining equipped with information, trends, and critical tools that could save lives. 

Arcadia Unified’s nursing team is led by District Nurse Manager Erica Newkirk, who provided insights into the district’s adaptive measures and Narcan training, showcasing its unwavering commitment to student welfare. 

Newkirk underscored the collaborative nature of the nursing team, which is composed of three district-level nurses, health office assistants, and Special Education nurses across the district’s 11 school campuses. She emphasized the importance of regular team meetings, both in-person and virtual, which foster effective communication and knowledge sharing among team members. 

"Training and resources for addressing student health needs are continually updating with annual required training covering diverse aspects of student health," Newkirk explained. 

She highlighted the team’s extensive collaboration with healthcare professionals, educators, and parents, ensuring a holistic approach to student well-being while prioritizing student privacy and consent. 

While Arcadia Unified has not had any fentanyl issues to date, in response to increased incidents related to fentanyl in other school districts and across the nation, Newkirk detailed proactive steps taken by the district’s nursing team to educate and equip staff to address potential cases of fentanyl exposure or overdose among students. 

“Nurses receive annual training in recognizing symptoms and administering Narcan,” she noted, emphasizing the importance of this life-saving opioid overdose reversal medication.  

Newkirk noted the additional importance of engaging in preventative programs and measures. 

“The district actively engages students and the community through initiatives like Red Ribbon Week, promoting healthy choices and substance abuse prevention.” 

Newkirk further outlined the protocols in place to identify, report, and address suspected cases of fentanyl exposure within schools, stressing the significance of open communication and swift action. She described the implementation of Narcan in schools as a meticulous process that involves collaborating with stakeholders, securing necessary authorizations, and ensuring staff proficiency through regular training programs. She highlighted efforts to communicate Narcan availability and administration protocols to teachers, students, and parents and educational initiatives to reduce the stigma associated with its use. 

“In the event of a Narcan administration,” Newkirk explained, “comprehensive follow-up procedures ensure support and resources for affected students and the school community.” 

Coordination with the counseling and wellness teams at Arcadia Unified and communication with parents and stakeholders are also vital, according to Newkirk, whose efforts demonstrate the district’s commitment to student welfare beyond immediate interventions. 

For more information about Arcadia Unified’s Health Services team and initiatives, please visit www.ausd.net.