3419 Policy – Self-Administration of Asthma and Anaphylaxis Medications

Asthma is an inflammatory disease of the respiratory tract. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction that involves systems of the entire body. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical treatment and follow-up care by an allergist/immunologist.

It is the policy of Bellingham Public Schools that students with asthma or anaphylaxis are afforded the opportunity to self-administer prescribed medications. The student’s parent/ guardian will submit a written request and other documentation required by the school. The student’s licensed health care provider must provide a written treatment plan.

The student must demonstrate to the school’s professional registered nurse that the student is competent to possess and self-administer prescribed medications during school and at school-sponsored events.

The superintendent will establish procedures that implement this policy and follow emergency rescue procedures outlined in the most recent edition of AMES, Asthma Management in Educational Settings, in cases of suspected asthma and the emergency rescue procedures outlined in the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction’s Guidelines for the Care of Students with Anaphylaxis in cases of suspected anaphylaxis.

Cross References:

Policy 2161 - Special Education and Related Services for Eligible Students

Policy 3413 - Student Immunization and Life-Threatening Health Conditions

Policy 3416 - Medication at School

Policy 3420 - Anaphylaxis Prevention

Legal References:

42 U.S.C. 280 Public Health Service Act

42 U.S.C. 12212 Section 512 Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990

34 CFR Part 104 Section 504 of Rehabilitation Act of 1973

RCW 28A.210.370 Students with Asthma

RCW 28A.210.380 Anaphylaxis-Policy guidelines-Procedures-Reports

Management Resources: