Managing Anaphylaxis in the School Setting
Anaphylactic Student Responsibilities (Age Appropriate)
Managing anaphylaxis in the school setting requires collaboration between students with anaphylactic allergies, their parents and the entire school community.Older students with anaphylactic allergies also need to be aware of their actions and abilities.
Students with anaphylactic food allergies
Students with anaphylactic allergies to food allergens should:- Avoid allergens.
- Not share foods or utensils.
- Know how to and be responsible for checking food labels.
- Wash hands before eating.
- Know and recognize the signs and symptoms of an anaphylactic reaction.
- Tell an adult as soon as an exposure occurs.
- Carry an epinephrine auto-injector at all times.
- Have an epinephrine auto-injector within reach before they start to eat.
- Know how to use the epinephrine auto-injector.
- Wear a MedicAlert® bracelet or necklace, or a special badge that clearly indicates the allergy.
Students with anaphylactic insect venom allergies
Students with anaphylactic allergies to insect venom should:- Avoid gardens, hedges, fruit trees, garbage cans, etc.
- Wear light — but not bright — colours.
- Avoid loose-fitting clothing.
- Wear shoes or sandals at all times while outside.
- Avoid wearing products with fragrance.
- Drink beverages from cups, rather than from cans or bottles where insects can hide.
Students with anaphylactic allergies to other allergens
Parents of students with anaphylactic allergies to other allergens should meet with school teachers and administrators to:- Communicate the details and severity of the allergy.
- Collaborate to provide students with allergy safe environments.
