Page 88 - School Bus Operators and Attendants Handbook

Transportation arrangements for students with OI may be very specialized because their bones can be so
easily broken by even the most minor bump, fall, or twist. Hearing impairments often develop in students
with this condition.
Symptoms may include:

 Triangular shaped face  Excessive sweating
 Bruising easily  Small limbs
 Short stature  Bowed limbs
 Stunted growth

Interventions:

 Carefully observe the student for fractures. This can happen without your knowledge since the
student’s bones are fragile.
 Observe the student if the bus temperature changes or if the bus is not air-conditioned. If he/she
is heavily perspired, notify the student’s parents or school personnel.
 If the student’s has a fractured bone, do not move him/her. The student’s parents and/or
paramedics should be notified.

Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)

There is a disease which affects both males and females. There are varying degrees of this condition. Nerves
that have failed to function properly cause SMA. The muscle cells to which they are attached deteriorate
thereby causing the muscles to weaken and waste away. The nerve cells in the spinal cord are affected.
This is an inherited disease and can start in infancy. Students have difficulty holding up their heads due to
weak neck muscles. Their trunks are also weak.

Symptoms may include:

 Severe weakness and in ability to stand
 Average to above intelligence
 Respiratory weakness
 Shortened lifespan

Interventions:

 Do not place the student at the back of the bus. This would cause much distress and possible
injury for the student.
 The student will most likely use a motorized wheelchair from an early age. Carefully supervise
and assist the student onto and off the lift, as well as into and out of the bus.
 Assist the student in placing his/her arms on the wheelchair armrests if they should slide off. The
student may not be able to do this for him/herself
 Always ask for assistance of the student’s physical therapist if there are any questions or
concerns.

Page 88 of 149
Exceptional Student Education (ESE)