The new school year is here, meaning it’s time to outline the management of your child’s asthma with anyone who interacts with him or her.
Who’s on that list? The school nurse, teachers, the school bus driver, and anyone who’s on the “need to know” list set by the school nurse and you. Establishing a good network of care will help to ensure your child’s safety as well as encourage him or her to participate in all aspects of the new school year.
To get started, 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 he/she needs help. Visit www.breathepa.org or call 800-220-1990 and request an Asthma Action Profile to complete for the school nurse (and keep a copy for yourself).
This plan should cover medications used at home and school, purpose, dose, and what to do if your child has an asthma attack at school. Remember to provide current contact information and provide the needed medication for the school nurse office. Reach out to your child’s physician for help, if needed.
Once you’ve completed the Asthma Action Profile, meet with the school nurse to discuss what information should be shared with your child’s teachers and school bus driver. Everyone on the same page will help support your efforts in keeping your child healthy and ready to learn in school. For additional information or to find out how you can bring an asthma program to your school, contact Jeannie Simms at 800-220-1990.