ALLERGIES

PREVENTION We take allergies very seriously, and work to collaborate closely with parents to respond to their child’s needs in the safest and most consistent way possible. First Circle is a nut-free and latex-free (gloves and band-aids) school.

ALLERGY ACTION PLAN If your child has a known or suspected allergy, we must be notified and a Special Care Plan and Allergy Action Plan must be on file. The Allergy Action Plan details the specific allergy, any preventative measures to be taken, symptoms of the allergy, expected treatment, and exact details of any medication to be given. The form must be filled out completely and signed by the child’s healthcare provider.

MANAGEMENT In the case of severe food allergies, we will eliminate serving that food in a classroom. In the case of a known allergy to a chemical or other material, we will post this information and eliminate exposure in the classroom environment, if possible. The names of children with allergies are posted in inconspicuous locations with specific instructions if a reaction were to happen. All educators in a classroom with a child with an allergy receive appropriate training to handle emergency allergic reactions.

TREATMENT In the event of an allergic reaction, we will adhere to the following procedures:

• Antihistamine: If the child’s Special Care Plan stipulates antihistamine for symptoms, the medication stipulated on the plan will be given. The parent will be contacted and a staff member will stay with the child at all times.
• Epinephrine: We will closely monitor the child for improvement or worsening of symptoms. If the child’s Special Care Plan stipulates an epi-pen for an allergic reaction, we will follow the plan exactly. The medication listed on the form will be given, 911 will be called, and a staff member will stay with the child at all times. The parent or emergency contact will be called. The child will be taken to the emergency room via ambulance with a staff member, who will bring the child’s file, including medical consent.