COVID-19 Testing is one of the layers of mitigation that will maximize the health, safety, and learning of our students and staff during the pandemic. Bridgeton Public Schools is offering COVID-19 testing on a voluntary basis in the event that a student or staff member develops symptoms of COVID-19 or otherwise needs COVID-19 testing for work or school purposes. The COVID-19 testing program is completely optional and voluntary. Prior consent is being requested for all students and staff that want to participate in this program that begins on March 9th, 2022. This service will be provided for students and staff at no cost.
- I understand that the above-named person should not come to school/work while sick. This consent authorizes the entity conducting testing to perform as-needed COVID-19 testing on the above-named person. Testing may be performed if requested by the parent/guardian or staff member, at the discretion of the School Nurse, or if the following symptoms are present.
- At least two of the following symptoms: fever, chills, muscle aches, headache, sore throat, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, nasal congestion, or runny nose; -OR-
- At least one of the following symptoms: cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, the new loss of smell, the new loss of taste.
- I understand that COVID-19 testing of the above-named person will be conducted through an Abbott Laboratories BinaxNOW™ antigen test, or approved equivalent, provided by the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) via a simple nasal swab (lower part of the nose) by the District School Nurse or fully trained designee.
- I understand and acknowledge that the Fact Sheet for Patients is available on the district website, in the School Nurse’s office, and at the following link https://www.fda.gov/media/141569/download. I have been informed of the test purpose, procedures, and potential risks and benefits. I understand that I may withdraw my consent to testing in writing at any time.
- I understand that this consent is only valid for the current school year and summer programs, if applicable.
- I understand that the ability of the above-named person to receive testing is limited to the availability of supplies.
- I understand the entity performing the test is not acting as the above-named person’s medical provider. Testing does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a medical provider. I assume complete and full responsibility to take appropriate action with regards to the test results, including seeking medical advice, care, and treatment from a medical provider or other health care entity if I have questions or concerns or if the above-named person’s condition worsens.
- I understand it is my responsibility to inform the above-named person’s health care provider of a positive test result, and that a copy will not be sent to the above-named person’s health care provider for me.
- I understand that the antigen test result will be available in 15-30 minutes from the time of specimen collection.
- I understand that the lab test results will be texted to the phone number on this form, if indicated above. Otherwise, the School Nurse will send a copy of the test results home with the above-named person in a confidentially sealed envelope.
- I understand and acknowledge that a positive antigen test result is an indication that the above-named person needs to go home from school/work immediately and self-isolate to avoid infecting others. Other persons living in the same household must also quarantine, if indicated, per district and NJDOH guidelines.
- I understand that the test results will be disclosed to the appropriate public health authorities NJDOH, building administration, and as otherwise permitted or required by law, to ensure the public health and control the spread of COVID-19. Sharing of such information will only be done so in accordance with applicable law and district policies protecting the privacy and the security of the person’s data.
- I understand that I can contact the School Nurse with any questions or concerns regarding COVID-19 testing in school.