Asthma

Asthma is one of the leading causes of school absenteeism. In an average classroom of 30 students, 3 students may have asthma. Several students with asthma may go undiagnosed or unidentified.

If asthma symptoms are uncontrolled, students with asthma may:

• Lose sleep because of coughing at night and then be tired the next day at school.

• Have a hard time in school or physical activities

• Avoid physical activity, fearing that it may trigger an asthma attack

• Avoid taking their asthma medication because they do not want to be seen as "different."

• Express feelings of embarrassment, frustration and isolation.

If your child has asthma, it is very important to tell your child's school nurse, teacher, coach, and caregivers.

An Asthma Action Plan is developed with your child's Primary Care Physican (PCP) or Pediatrician and addresses the needs of students with asthma who require the use of inhalers and/or nebulizer treatments during the school day.  A signed Asthma Emergency Action Plan and Medication Authorization Form must be on file with the School Nurse in order for nebulizers or inhalers to be adminstered at school, even if the student is deemed competent by the physician to self-administer medication.

Click on the forms below to view and print copies:

Asthma Information and Resources                                                                         Medication Administration Form for Inhaler