POLICY:
Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction that may involve systems of the entire body. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical treatment and follow-up care by an allergist/immunologist.
WSSB expects school administrators, teachers and support staff to be informed and aware of life-threatening allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) and how to deal with the resulting medical emergencies. For students, some common life-threatening allergens are peanuts, tree nuts, fish, bee or other insect stings, latex and some medications. Affected students require planned care and support during all hours they are in WSSB care. Additionally, any student could potentially have a life-threatening allergic reaction without a history of such.
Parents/guardians are responsible for informing the school about their student’s potential risk for anaphylaxis and for ensuring the provision of ongoing health information and necessary medical supplies. WSSB will take reasonable measures to avoid allergens for affected students. WSSB will also train all staff in the awareness of anaphylaxis and prepare them to respond to emergencies. Additionally, student specific training will be provided for appropriate personnel.
Even with WSSB’s best efforts, staff and parents/guardians need to be aware that it is not possible to achieve a completely allergen-free environment. However, WSSB will take precautions to reduce the risk of a student with a history of anaphylaxis from having an anaphylactic reaction by developing strategies to minimize the presence of allergens in schools and prevent known students from coming in contact with known allergens.
WSSB administration will establish procedures to support this policy and to ensure:
- Rescue protocol in cases of suspected anaphylaxis will follow OSPI’s Guidelines for the Care of Students with Anaphylaxis (2009);
- A simple and standardized format for emergency care plans is utilized;
- A protocol is in place to ensure emergency care plans are current and completed;
- Medication orders are clear and unambiguous; and
- Training and documentation is a priority.
Legal References: RCW 28A.210.383, WAC 392-380
Other References: Guidelines for the Care of Students with Anaphylaxis – OSPI 2009
Attachments: Standing Order for the Administration of School Supplied Stock Epinephrine Auto-Injectors for Potentially Life-Threatening Allergic Reactions (Anaphylaxis) in Individuals Pursuant to RCW 28A.210.383