Asthma Management In Educational Settings

Parent Education Module

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Overview

Asthma Basics What the school nurse needs to

know Managing asthma at school Resources

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Asthma Basics What is asthma?

Chronic inflammatory lung condition resulting in acute attacks

Manageable disease Who has asthma?

4.8M US, 150K (1 in 10) Washington children

Incidence of asthma among children is increasing

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Asthma Basics (cont.)

What happens during an attack? Airway inflammation, constriction, mucus Symptoms include: coughing, wheezing,

chest tightness, shortness of breath What can trigger an asthma attack?

Respiratory illness, allergens, weather, irritants, emotions, exercise

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Asthma Basics (cont.)

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What the school nurse needs to know about your child

All information will be kept confidential Asthma history

First diagnosis Home control Hospitalizations/ER/ Intensive care

School days missed last year

Severity Peak flow/spacer? Medications Special needs Triggers Asthma education?

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Managing asthma at school

Preparation before school Develop an Asthma Management Plan with

the child’s health care provider and share it with school nurse

Discuss special situations Field trips, transportation, after school activities

Provide school with: Required oral medication authorization form Necessary equipment and supplies,

including 3-day disaster supply Know when your child should stay home

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Resources Spokane

Camp Champ Statewide

www.alaw.org Websites

www.epa.gov/iaq www.asthmaandschools.org www.lungusa.org