Scolosis Certification

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Scoliosis Rules

The state of Texas mandates spinal screening for students in the 6th and 9th grade using school nurses and other trained adults to screen all students. Careful training and understanding of spinal screening is essential for the success of this program.

Schools may implement a program that includes screening in the 5th and 8th grades as an alternative to 6th and 9th.

The intent of the state law is to maintain a three-year gap between students’ spinal screenings.

Spinal screening certification is valid for 5 years from date on card, after which screener must renew certification by passing another State Department of Health Service approved workshop.

Who May Screen?

Anyone may screen (Health aides, LVN, physical education teachers, classroom teachers, and adult volunteers) provided they complete a spinal screening certification workshop conducted by the Department of State Health Services by an approved trainer.

Licensed professional health practitioners (RNs, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, physicians, chiropractors, physical therapist) may screen without prior training provided their prior certification covered a course of study of physical assessment, or they received formal advanced instruction in spinal screening as a part of continuing education.

Licensed professional health practitioners may attend a spinal screening at anytime for additional guidance or to refresh their skills and knowledge.

TUTORIAL for SPINAL SCREENING REPORT:
The Texas Department of State Health Services (dSHS) has created an on-line tutorial on the Spinal Screening Report (FORM M-51). This tutorial walks the user through each section of the report form.