Page 33 - Anaphylaxis in Schools & Other Settings, 3rd Edition Revised
P. 33
Have the child wear medical identification (e.g. MedicAlert® bracelet). The identification could
alert others to the child’s allergies and indicate that the child carries an epinephrine auto-injector. Information accessed through a special number on the identification jewelry can also assist the local emergency medical services (e.g. paramedics) to access important information quickly.
Availability and Location of Epinephrine Auto-injectors (“auto-injectors”)
Children at risk of anaphylaxis who have demonstrated maturity should carry one auto-injector with them at all times and have a back-up available in the school. Most children are able to carry their own auto-injector and asthma inhaler (if needed) by grade one to two. For children with stinging insect allergy, this would not have to be for the full year but during insect season (warmer months).
Posters which describe signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis and how to give an epinephrine auto- injector will be placed in relevant areas, e.g. classrooms, office, staff room, lunch room or cafeteria. Additional auto-injectors should be brought on field trips. It is recommended that the organizer of the field trip carry a cell phone and know the location of the closest medical facility.
Emergency Protocol
An individual Anaphylaxis Emergency Plan can be signed by the child’s physician, if required. With parental permission, a copy of this Plan will be placed in designated areas such as the classroom and office.
Adults must be encouraged to listen to the concerns of the child who usually knows when a reaction is occurring, even before signs appear. It cannot be assumed that children will be able to properly self-administer their auto-injector. (Children may be fearful of getting a needle, they may be in denial that they are having a reaction, or they may not be able to self-administer due to the severity of the reaction.) When giving epinephrine, it is recommended to have the person sit or lie down. When administering to a child, it may be helpful to support or brace their leg to reduce movement.
To respond effectively during an emergency, a routine has been established and practiced, similar to a fire drill. During an emergency:
1. Give epinephrine auto-injector (e.g. EpiPen®) at the first sign of a known or suspected anaphylactic reaction.
2. Call 9-1-1 or local emergency medical services. Tell them someone is having a life-threatening allergic reaction.
3. Give a second dose of epinephrine as early as 5 minutes after the first dose if there is no improvement in symptoms.
4. Go to the nearest hospital immediately (ideally by ambulance), even if symptoms are mild or have stopped. The reaction could worsen or come back, even after proper treatment. Stay in the hospital for an appropriate period of observation as decided by the emergency department physician (generally about 4-6 hours).
5. Call emergency contact person (e.g. parent, guardian).
Anaphylaxis in Schools & Other Settings
© 2005-2016 Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
29
Appendix C
