Asthma is a very common condition. An increasing number of children experience problems today. Asthma varies so much from person to person that it is impossible to give rules that will suit everyone. It is important for us to realise that children are affected by asthma in different ways; some children require short term treatment, whilst others may require long term medication.
It is important to remember that attacks of asthma often cause panic. We need to stay calm and reassure the child.
On admission to Llangors School, parents will be asked to give full information on the admission form as to the child’s type of asthma, the type of inhaler used and whether or not the child may take an active part in physical activities. Each member of staff can be made aware of the child’s condition.
Inhalers: Inhalers must be readily accessible for the children who use them. In the light of Health and Safety the following applies:-
If the child is responsible for keeping his/her own inhaler (Year 3- 6) it is advisable that a ‘spare’ be supplied to the school in the event of loss or damage. Inhalers for Infants (N/R, Years 1 & 2) must be held in a safe place by the class teacher.
Inhalers must be labelled with the owner’s name and the child and staff made aware of its location.
During out of school events (Staylittle, Isle of Wight, Llangrannog, Sports activities), the teacher responsible for the activity should ensure that immediate access to treatment is possible.
A list of names of those who bring medication to school for asthma must be readily available to staff.
It is advisable that individual members of staff be aware of the correct action needed to deal with an asthma attack.