Caring for Students with Food Allergies Faculty and Staff Training

Food Allergies 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

Exposure Exposure is anytime a student ingests (eats) or touches the allergen In some cases airborne food protein can be enough to cause a reaction in nut allergies:  Food prepared in containers or with utensils that have previously been used with nut products can cause a reaction  Common household cleaning agents such as Formula 409 , Lysol  Sanitizing wipes, and Target brand  cleaner with bleach, effectively remove peanut allergen from tabletops and other surfaces

Symptoms following Exposure to Allergen: Localized Reaction: Hives Itching Watery eyes Runny nose Swelling of the tongue

Symptoms following 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 Exposure Reactions can be unpredictable, so it’s important to always be prepared! A child can have a very severe allergic reaction, even if previous reactions have been mild.

Food Allergy Management Keep the classroom as allergen-free as possible (remove allergens - or the child - immediately if allergen is present) Nut Allergies: 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

Studies Two studies have now shown that up to 25% of reactions to peanut allergy in the school setting are first time reactions It is important that all schools have a plan for recognizing and treating these potentially life threatening allergic emergencies School staff should all be aware of the symptoms of an allergic reaction!

Emergency Care Review the student’s Emergency Care Plan (written by your school nurse) Know what emergency medications are available for your student, where they are and how to give them if necessary Know what information to give 911 if needed (request Advanced Life Support) Know where student’s emergency information is located.

Successful Allergy Management Understand how to determine where allergens are found Keep the environment as safe for the student as possible Know your student and those students you supervise Be prepared to follow your student’s Emergency Care Plan Plan field trips carefully

Confidentiality 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 other nicknames  Handle things with quiet professionalism Understand parental anxiety Face your own anxiety and then: Relax and enjoy all of these students!

Questions? Consult your School Nurse as needed!