Kimberly Kostas

When a family shares that their child has a central line, child care providers and school staff may have questions. Can the child participate in everyday activities? What should staff watch for? Will a nurse need to provide care during the day? Many children with central lines can attend child care and school with appropriate planning and support. Understanding the child’s needs, preparing staff, and following the regulations that apply to your setting can help create a safe, welcoming...

For many private and non-public schools in Massachusetts, medication administration can be surprisingly complicated. A student needs an inhaler. Another has an epinephrine auto-injector. A child takes ADHD medication during the school day. Another student has a seizure rescue medication that needs to be available in an emergency... Who can give these medications? Where should they be stored? What documentation is required? Can a teacher or administrator administer medication? Does the school...

When parents entrust their children to a child care program, they expect a safe, prepared environment. One of the most critical safety requirements—and one of the most valuable skills staff can have—is current CPR and First Aid certification. In both Massachusetts and Rhode Island, CPR certification is not only a regulatory requirement but also a lifesaving tool that protects children, staff, and programs. As a pediatric nurse and now a Certified American Red Cross Adult and Pediatric CPR/AED...