3419: Self-Administration of Asthma and Anaphylaxis Medications

Asthma is an inflammatory disease of the respiratory tract. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction that may involve 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 the board of directors that students with asthma or anaphylaxis are afforded the opportunity to self-administer prescribed medications. The student’s parent or guardian will submit a written request and other documentation required by the school. The student’s prescribing health care provider must provide a signed medication authorization form and/or treatment plan documenting student’s capability to carry and self-administer the medication.

The student should demonstrate to their health care provider or 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 (2009) in cases of suspected anaphylaxis.

Cross References

• Board Policy 3416 Medication at School
• 2161 Special Education and Related Services for Eligible Students
• 2162 Education of Students with Disabilities Under Section 504
• 3420 Anaphylaxis Prevention

Legal References

• 42 U.S.C. 280 Public Health Service Act
• RCW 28A.210.370 Students with Asthma