Allergic Reactions in the Schools Developed by Sally Schoessler, RN, SNT

Bee Sting Allergies l Sudden onset following a sting l Can be life-threatening l Must remove child from the presence of bees to reduce risk of student being stung multiple times

Peanut and Nut Allergies l Food allergies can be life-threatening l It’s important to understand the precautions to take to keep students as safe as possible l The biggest risk to these students is accidental exposure l We need to work together as a team to minimize risks and provide a safe environment

Peanut Exposure l Exposure is anytime a student ingests (eats) or touches peanuts or peanut products l In some cases the smell of peanuts can be enough to cause a reaction l FOOD PREPARED IN CONTAINERS OR WITH UTENSILS THAT HAVE PREVIOUSLY BEEN USED WITH NUT PRODUCTS CAN CAUSE A REACTION l Peanut Oil can remain on a surface cleaned with soap and water for 6 months

Symptoms Following Exposure to Allergen: Localized Reaction: l Hives l Itching l Watery eyes l Runny nose

Symptoms Following Exposure to Allergen: Generalized reaction: l Vomiting l “My mouth feels hot” l Coughing, wheezing l Swelling of any part of the body l Tightening of the throat l Dizziness l Sense of doom l Loss of consciousness

Reaction to Exposure EACH ALLERGIC REACTION THAT A CHILD HAS WILL INCREASE IN SEVERITY FROM THE LAST REACTION!

Bee Sting Allergy Management l Work with faculty to plan field trips carefully (avoid areas where you are sure to find bees) l Be sure that personnel have medication readily available at class and sporting events that take place outside l Instruct personnel to respond quickly if the student is stung

Peanut Allergy Management l Keep the classroom as “nut-free” as possible (remove allergens - or the child - immediately if allergen is present) l Cafeteria accommodations should be made: Establish a “peanut-free table” near a window or door Do not allow children to use the table or chair at other lunch periods Wash tables with separate cloth from other tables

Emergency Care l Write an Emergency Care Plan - distribute it according to district practice l Establish an emergency protocol, be sure that it is easily available in an emergency l Know what information to give 911 if needed (request Advanced Life Support) l Know where student’s emergency information is located (phone numbers, etc.)

Successful Allergy Management l Understand how to determine where allergens are found l Keep the environment as safe for the student as possible l Work closely with the parent to train faculty and staff l Be prepared to follow your student’s Emergency Care Plan without delay l Plan field trips carefully

Confidentiality l All students have the legal right to have their health information treated with confidentiality l All students deserve respect Never refer to a student as “the peanut kid” or “the bee kid” Handle things with quiet professionalism l Understand parental anxiety l Face your own anxiety and then: Relax and enjoy all of these students!