Asthma Management for Students in Saint Paul Public Schools
Vision:  Students with Asthma are under Good Control

1.  Asthma can be controlled.  When asthma is controlled - students can fully participate in class and  school activities.

2.  Contact your school nurse if your child has asthma.

3.  SPPS has a medication policy and procedure to ensure the safety of students.

• Medication in School
  Most students need a rescue medication (albuterol) at school in case they have problems with asthma. SPPS has a board approved medication policy.
• All medication requires a written doctor or nurse practitioner order and parent/guardian authorization every year.
• Upon written recommendation of the prescribing doctor/nurse practitioner, parent/guardian and after consultation with the school nurse, a student may be allowed to self-administer medication, provided that the school nurse has developed a written health care plan.

4.  All students with asthma should have a rescue medication at school.

What is an Asthma Trigger?

People with asthma have airways that react to triggers. The airway lining swells, mucous forms, and the airway muscles tighten. As a result, less air moves in the chest. The person with asthma feels short of breath and chest tightness. This is why people with asthma have difficulty breathing.

Asthma triggers are irritants that make the airways react. There are many kinds of triggers in the environment. The environment can include the indoor air quality in the home or school. The environment can also include outdoor air quality - such as pollen, ozone, and weather. It is important that you are aware of asthma triggers to:

1) Avoid introducing asthma triggers into the school or home. For example, strong scents or pets can make asthma worse.

2) Understand when children may have more difficulty due to the presence of triggers. For example, sudden changes in temperature or exercise can make asthma worse.

3) Make decisions about scheduling activities.

Click on the link below for Minnesota air information.

http://aqi.pca.state.mn.us/hourly/

Common Asthma Triggers

Changes in Temperature and Humidity

Cold, dry air can be irritating. Sudden changes in temperature or humidity can make asthma worse.

Cigarette Smoke

Cigarette smoke is an asthma trigger. Even second hand or passive smoke makes asthma worse. Cigarette smoke also stays on hair and clothing – which can make asthma worse. Avoid smoking in the home or car. 

Cleaning Supplies

Some cleaning supplies can be an asthma trigger. 

Coughing, Yelling, or Laughing

Coughing, yelling, or laughing can be an asthma trigger.

Dust and Dust Mites

Dust and dust mites can be an asthma trigger. Keep areas free of clutter to prevent dust. 

Stuffed animals provide a home for dust mites.  Wash stuffed animals periodically to remove dust mites and allergens that accumulate on the stuffed animals.  Avoid large stuffed animals that cannot be washed. 

Exercise

Anyone with asthma has the potential to develop asthma symptoms during exercise. It doesn’t mean that people with asthma cannot exercise. It does mean that people with asthma should have a rescue inhaler (albuterol) and use it as prescribed. Some people with asthma use their inhaler before starting exercise to prevent problems. If they use their inhaler before exercise, it is important to use the inhaler 15 minutes before starting exercise to prevent symptoms.  Others may need to use their inhaler if they have symptoms.

Asthma symptoms usually start about 15 minutes after beginning an activity. A person with an asthma exacerbation may have difficulty talking, keeping up with others, shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, or chest tightness. If this happens, the child needs your help.

If your child has asthma, let your school nurse know.  If your child is in extracurricular activities– you should also let their coach know that they have asthma. 

Perfume

Scents in candles, perfume, and sprays should be avoided.

Pets

Pets can also be a source of allergens – such as dander, feather, fur, and saliva. When children handle pets, the allergens can get on their hands and clothing. Allergens can also travel from one child to another on their clothing or can travel through the air vents in a home. Children with asthma can have an asthma attack when exposed to animal allergens. In addition, some children can become allergic if they are repeatedly exposed to animal allergens.

                   Some tips:

Children should always wash their hands before and after handling pets. Children should avoid rubbing their faces on pets. Don’t place pet cages near vents or on carpeting.  Cages should be cleaned regularly.

If you have questions about a pet and your child's allergies, contact your health care provider to find out if the pet is appropriate for your child. 

Some pet alternatives that do not introduce fur, feathers, or dander into the child's environment:

How about a fish?

How about a bird feeder outside the window?

Stress

New or sudden stress can make asthma worse. Ongoing stress can make asthma worse also.

Conclusion:  Managing Triggers in the Child's Environment

As a parent or family member, you can help minimize the number of asthma triggers in your child's home environment.  It is important that you understand what asthma triggers are and how to avoid them.