The National Association of School Nurses (NASN) has developed a clinical practice guideline titled Students with Allergies and Risk for Anaphylaxis.

Allergic conditions affect approximately 50 million children and adults living in the United States (American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology [AAAAI], 2020), including allergic rhinitis, asthma, eczema, allergic reactions, and many other allergic disease processes. In the United States food allergies affect about 32 million people (FARE, 2023), medication allergies affect about 7% of the population (FARE, 2023), and stinging insect allergies can result in potentially life-threatening allergic reactions in 0.4% – 0.8% of children and 3% of adults (ACAAI, 2023). In the pediatric population latex allergy can also be problematic, specifically in children with spina bifida, as latex allergy affects 40-65% of children with this condition (FARE, 2023). Regardless of the allergen, identification of symptoms consistent with an allergic reaction and anaphylaxis are critical to ensure timely treatment and care of the individual experiencing the reaction. About 16-18% of students will experience their first food allergic reaction at school (Tsuang & Wang, 2016) and up to 25% of epinephrine administered in schools is for students and staff with an unknown allergy (FARE, 2016). A safe and supportive school environment for students with allergies is critical for their safety and learning, including preparedness of the student, families, classrooms, and staff to proactively plan and implement risk reduction strategies to minimize actual or potential allergen exposures.

To access the guideline, click here.