Crutches & Wheelchair Procedures

The parent/guardian of students that require the use of a mobility assistive device in school; for example, crutches, wheelchair, cane or walker should provide documentation to the school nurse from a hospital or medical practice. This documentation should include the name of the hospital, or medical practice (with contact information) and can be accepted from the following; physician, nurse practitioner, physician’s assistant, nurse (RN, LPN), physical therapist, school athletic trainer, other paraprofessionals, case manager, or office manager. To provide a safe environment this documentation (and other related documentation) should include the following:

• Reason for use
• Duration (length) of use (with dates)
• Ability to use stairs
• Any activity restrictions
• Any special instructions 

A student with a long-term disability does not require additional documentation each school year unless there is a change in the use of their mobility device. The school nurse will review the documentation and develop and implement a plan to accommodate the student during the school day to include field trips. The parent/guardian must provide the crutches, wheelchair, cane, or walker.

Please contact your school nurse should you have any questions or concerns.