2. Asthma in School

Asthma in School

Schools should strive to create an inclusive environment by modifying the activities the student can engage in to reduce the risk of asthma attacks.

Colds and the flu are among the most common causes of asthma episodes. Schools should encourage good hand washing habits to prevent the spread of colds and flu.

Impacts on Student Learning

• Fatigue – students up at night with coughing, wheezing or other symptoms are tired in the morning
• Absenteeism – related to asthma episodes, medical appointments and hospitalizations
  
• Anxiety or Embarrassment – some students with asthma may feel anxious about participating in physical activity or other activities as they fear they will experience an asthma attack

Asthma Action Plan

• All students with asthma should have an individualized Asthma Action Plan which outlines the student’s symptoms, triggers and it’s management
• Action Plans should be completed by Doctors/ Nurse Practitioners and parents/guardians at the beginning of the school year and should be revised when changes in the student’s condition occur
• Parents/guardians work in partnership with schools to create a safe learning environment for the student

Asthma Emergency Action Plan for Children 1-5 years old example

Action Plan for Children from 1-5

Asthma Emergency Action Plan for Children 6-18 example

Action Plan for Children 6-18

Asthma Medication at School

Students with Asthma should have a Request for Administration of Medication at School form from the applicable School Board completed by the parent or guardian.

Inhalers can be administered by using a spacer (aerochamber ®) and/or mask. There are two types of Asthma inhalers (puffers):

(Click below for more information)

Inhalers

Inhalers can be administered by using a spacer (aerochamber ®) and/or mask

(Click on these links for more information)

How to Use a Metered-Dose Inhaler

How to Use an Inhaler with Spacer and No Mask

How to Use an Inhaler with spacer and Mask