Allergic Reactions Allergic Reactions in the Schoolsin the Schools

Developed by

Sally Schoessler, RN, SNT

Bee Sting AllergiesBee Sting Allergies

Sudden onset following a sting Can be life-threatening Must remove child

from the presence

of bees to reduce risk

of student being stung

multiple times

Peanut and Nut Peanut and Nut AllergiesAllergies

Food allergies can be life-threatening It’s important to understand the precautions

to take to keep students as safe as possible The biggest risk to these students is

accidental exposure We need to work together as a team to

minimize risks and provide a safe environment

Peanut ExposurePeanut Exposure

Exposure is anytime a student ingests (eats) or touches peanuts or peanut products

In some cases the smell of peanuts can be enough to cause a reaction

FOOD PREPARED IN CONTAINERS OR WITH UTENSILS THAT HAVE PREVIOUSLY BEEN USED WITH NUT PRODUCTS CAN CAUSE A REACTION

Peanut Oil can remain on a surface cleaned with soap and water for 6 months

Symptoms Following Symptoms Following Exposure to Allergen:Exposure to Allergen:

Localized Reaction: Hives Itching Watery eyes Runny nose

Symptoms Following Symptoms Following Exposure to Allergen:Exposure to Allergen:

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

Reaction to ExposureReaction to Exposure

EACH ALLERGIC REACTION

THAT A CHILD HAS WILL INCREASE IN

SEVERITY FROM THE LAST REACTION!

Bee Sting Allergy Bee Sting Allergy ManagementManagement

Work with faculty to plan field trips carefully (avoid areas where you are sure to find bees)

Be sure that personnel have medication readily available at class and sporting events that take place outside

Instruct personnel to respond quickly if the

student is stung

Peanut Allergy Peanut Allergy ManagementManagement

Keep the classroom as “nut-free” as possible (remove allergens - or the child - immediately if allergen is present)

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 CareEmergency Care

Write an Emergency Care Plan - distribute it according to district practice

Establish an emergency protocol, be sure that it is easily available in an emergency

Know what information to give 911 if needed (request Advanced Life Support)

Know where student’s emergency information is located (phone numbers, etc.)

Successful Allergy Successful Allergy ManagementManagement

Understand how to determine where allergens are found

Keep the environment as safe for the student as possible

Work closely with the parent to train faculty and staff Be prepared to follow your student’s Emergency Care

Plan without delay Plan field trips carefully

ConfidentialityConfidentiality

All students have the legal right to have their health information treated with confidentiality

All students deserve respect• Never refer to a student as “the peanut kid” or “the bee kid”

• Handle things with quiet professionalism Understand parental anxiety Face your own anxiety and then:

Relax and enjoy all of these students!