Infirmary - Frequently Asked Questions

The Infirmary is open Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays 9:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m. when school is in session. Students are encouraged to visit before meals or during free periods so they don’t miss valuable class or community time. Of course, in the case of illness or emergency, care is available any time of day or night.

Yes, occasionally. If a student has a significant fever, contagious illness, or condition that prevents participation in school life, they may be admitted to the Infirmary for rest and monitoring. Our goal is always to provide the care a student needs to recover quickly and comfortably while protecting the health of the community.

If a boarding student becomes ill overnight, they should notify the Dorm Parent, who will contact the nurse on call. A nurse is always available after hours to guide next steps or assess whether the student should be seen immediately.

Yes. Parents are contacted if a student is admitted to the Infirmary or requires off-campus or emergency care.
For minor, non-urgent concerns, families will receive an email update. We also encourage parents to reach out anytime—our nurses are happy to answer questions or discuss your child’s care.

If your child is ill at home, please notify the Education Office, so teachers can plan accordingly. Children with fevers or contagious symptoms should remain home until they are fully well and fever-free for at least 24 hours without medication.

Our nurses partner closely with each student’s physician to ensure continuity of care. If your child’s doctor recommends a medication or treatment to be administered at school, please have the doctor complete and fax our Medication Authorization Form to the Infirmary at 860-382-4375. Written orders are required for all medications and treatments.

If a doctor limits your child’s participation in sports or other activities, a written note must be provided to the Infirmary. Similarly, a written clearance from a physician is required before returning to full activity. This helps us ensure each student’s safe, healthy return.

Our Infirmary staff and athletic trainer make decisions with student safety as their top priority. While we respect each family’s physician, our staff must also consider what’s best in the context of school life and prior injury or illness. We welcome communication between your doctor and our medical team to determine the safest plan for your child.

Yes. The Infirmary can assist in scheduling appointments, arranging transportation, and communicating with local dental offices. Parents should contact the Infirmary prior to the visit to provide consent and payment details. A transportation fee applies for off-campus trips.

Yes. Rectory’s on-campus counseling team provides support to students as needed. If additional care beyond our in-house resources is recommended, our counselors and nurses work together to connect families with trusted local mental health professionals.

For safety reasons, students may not keep medication in their rooms unless specifically approved by the Director of Nursing. Certain over-the-counter medications may be permitted on a case-by-case basis. Controlled substances, psychotropic medications, herbal or homeopathic supplements, and non-U.S. formulary medications are not permitted in dorm rooms. All medication must be reported to and dispensed through the Infirmary.

The Athletic Trainer is available on sports days for injury evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation guidance. This service is free for students. Some equipment—such as splints or braces—may incur a small fee. The Athletic Trainer collaborates closely with the Infirmary to ensure each student’s safe participation in athletics.

Our Director of Nursing, Athletic Trainer, and School Counselors form a coordinated care team that works together to support every student’s physical and emotional wellbeing. This holistic approach ensures that each student receives consistent, compassionate care across all areas of campus life.

Student medical information is confidential and shared only on a need-to-know basis—for example, with advisors, dorm parents, coaches, or the Director of Residential Life—so that your child receives the right support. If a student is admitted to the Infirmary, the Education Office is notified daily so teachers are aware and can provide appropriate academic flexibility.

You’re an essential part of your child’s health team. Here’s how you can help us care for your child:

• Keep us informed of any illnesses, medications, or changes in health.
• Ensure all health forms and insurance information are current.
• Provide medication refills before they run out.
• Encourage good habits—rest, nutrition, hydration, and flu prevention.
• And always feel free to call or email with questions or concerns.

Together, we ensure that every Rectory student stays healthy, safe, and ready to thrive.