Back to school with food allergies

A back-to-school checklist for parents whose child has a food allergy can set the stage for a safe and happy school year. It’s important to focus on communication with key people, being sure to ask questions. If the answer is uncertain or unclear, continue to ask until it is clear. Read on to see what questions to ask. The school nurse Is there a full-time school nurse? If not, what is the protocol for managing reactions if a nurse is not available? Are school staff trained to recognize symptoms of an allergic emergency? Are they trained to respond? Who is trained? Are lunch and recess monitors trained? Who should be alerted if a child has a reaction? Are trained teachers or other school staff allowed to look for signs of anaphylaxis? Can they administer epinephrine to a student with a known allergy? Find out policies. Does the school have peanut-/nut-free tables? Is it a peanut-/nut-allergy friendly school? It is extremely difficult to maintain schools that are completely peanut-free, particularly if other students are bringing in food from home. What measures are in place to prevent accidental exposures? Teacher Does the school allow outside food for celebrations like birthdays? Many schools are turning away from this toward healthier and safer options. If food is brought in from home, how is it checked for safety? Ideally, parents of children with food allergies should be notified and provided time to check ingredients. If not, request a system for advanced notifica...
Source: Thrive, Children's Hospital Boston - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Diseases & Conditions Health & Wellness Dr. John Lee food allergies Source Type: news