At the top of your list of must-dos for another successful school year should be supporting the management of your child’s asthma.
First, you and your child need to complete an asthma action profile to verify what you do and don’t know about your child’s asthma. It is important your child be included in establishing a current asthma record because you won’t always be there when they need help. Download our asthma action profile or call 1-800-220-1990 to request a student asthma kit which includes a free peak-flow meter, spacer and an asthma action profile to fill out.
Next, meet with your physician, so you and your child can create an asthma action plan with their guidance.
This plan should include:
- A list of medications the child takes, noting times and doses
- A list of asthma triggers
- A plan of action for an asthma episode, as well as how to monitor the child’s peak flow
- Emergency procedures and phone numbers
Provide your child’s school nurse with the asthma action plan and all needed medication. Meet with your school nurse to set a “need to know” list and discuss what information should be shared with those on the list. Your school nurse can determine the best way to share this information. Establishing a good network of care will help to ensure your child’s safety, as well as encourage them to participate in all aspects of school in the new year.
Making sure that everyone is on the same page will help support your efforts in keeping your child healthy, in school and ready to learn. For more information, visit breathepa.org or contact Jeannie Simms at 1-800-220-1990.