Attack on Asthma Nebraska

A new state regulation became effective on October 1, 2003. This regulation requires that our school be prepared to implement an emergency treatment plan, called a protocol, anytime a student or staff member experiences a life threatening asthma attack or systemic allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Our school will be ready to implement the protocol in emergency situations by the end of the 2003-2004 academic school year.

The protocol requires that 911 is called first. After that call is made, an EpiPen injection will be given and then albuterol is provided through a nebulizer. An EpiPen is a small pre-filled, automatic injection device that resembles a highlighter. It is used to deliver epinephrine. Epinephrine is a medication that is used to bring quick relief by improving breathing and lung function. Albuterol is another medication that is used to bring breathing relief (commonly found in metered-dose inhalers). The nebulizer is a machine that mixes the albuterol with air to provide a fine mist (aerosol) for breathing in through a mask or mouthpiece.

The protocol steps are designed to provide quick, effective care in order to prevent death from occurring due to a severe asthma attack or anaphylaxis. A response team of staff members will be trained to recognize signs and symptoms of a life-threatening >=breathing? emergency and to properly administer the medications. The protocol is a standing medical order that has been signed by Dr. Anthony Kusek.

If you know that your student has asthma or a known allergy, it is critically important that you communicate this information to our school staff. You may contact Marcia Seier, school nurse. For each student with a known allergic condition or asthma, you must provide the school with (1) written medical documentation, (2) instructions, and (3) medications as directed by a physician. In the event that your student experiences a life threatening asthma attack or systemic allergic reaction, we will defer to the specific documents and medication that you have provided. If you do not have medical documentation and instructions on file with the school for your student, we will defer to the regulatory protocol described above. If, for whatever reason, you do not want your student to receive the lifesaving emergency treatment under the protocol, you must file your written objection with the school.

If you have questions or concerns about the protocol or your student's health issues, please contact Marcia Seier or any Boone Central School Administrators. You may visit the Attack on Asthma Nebraska website at Attack on Asthma.