Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Early Childhood Practice Exam

What action should a teacher take if she suspects a child has conjunctivitis to prevent spreading the infection?

1. Have children use hand sanitizer frequently

2. Send a note to parents about symptoms

3. Separate the child for the day

4. Contact the child’s parents immediately

The correct answer is: Contact the child’s parents immediately

The most effective action a teacher can take if she suspects a child has conjunctivitis is to contact the child’s parents immediately. This is critical because conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is highly contagious and can spread quickly in a classroom setting. By informing the parents, they can take the necessary steps, such as seeking medical advice and keeping the child at home to prevent further spread to other children. While frequent use of hand sanitizer can help reduce the overall spread of germs in the classroom, it may not be sufficient to contain an infection like conjunctivitis, which requires more immediate action. Sending a note to parents about symptoms can be helpful but does not provide an urgent response to ensure the child's safety and health. Separating the child for the day may temporarily reduce the risk of spreading the infection within the classroom, but without parental notification and further medical evaluation, the child could return to school still contagious. Thus, contacting the parents directly is the most responsible and effective course of action.