Allergies are diseases of the immune system causing a systemic bodily overreaction to specific substances identified as an "allergen" that do not cause reactions in most people.  These "allergens" can trigger sneezing, wheezing, coughing, itching, as well as more serious reactions such as asthma and anaphylaxis.

Common allergic diseases are: Allergic rhinitis, allergic asthma, food allergy, drug allergy, latex allergy, insect sting/bite allergy, hives, skin allergies, eye allergy.

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Best Practices for Managing Allergy or Anaphylaxis in the School Setting

Read the position statement of the National Association of School Nurses on the school nurse's role in the management of allergy or anaphylaxis in the school setting.

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Visit the AAFA website for detailed information about allergy causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Students miss school days each year because of allergy symptoms. Teachers should monitor the classroom for plants, pets or other items that may carry allergens. Encourage their students to wash their hands after recess or outside activities and help students with allergies to manage their symptoms during the school day.

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Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America
CDC -  Food Allergies in Schools

Asthma is a lung disease causing blockage or narrowing of airways, making it difficult to breathe.  Asthma symptoms can be triggered by an allergic reaction or a non-allergic reaction causing inflammation, coughing, wheezing, rapid breathing and tightness in the chest.

Allergic asthma is the most common and can be triggered by inhaling allergens such as pollens, mold, dust mites, pet dander, and other common household allergens.

Non-allergic asthma is less common and can be triggered by anxiety, stress, exercise, cold air, dry air, hyperventilation, and smoke.

An "asthma management plan" will help prevent symptoms and allow students to attend school regularly, participate fully in exercise and sports, and decrease hospital or emergency visits.

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Best Practices for Improving Asthma Management in Schools
Read the position statement of the National Association of School Nurses and others who support improving asthma management in the school setting.

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Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America
CDC - Asthma

The primary goal of this program is to advance the well-being, academic success, and life-long achievement of all students.
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What services do school nurses provide?

• Assessment and intervention for injury/illness
• Medication administration
• Case management and care plan development for identified health problems
• Health consultation with parents, staff, and physicians
• Liaison to school, community, and/or health care provider
• Health education and promotion
• Review of school health records

Comprehensive School Health Services
The Florida Department of Health, PBC provides an additional scope of services to students in identified schools to reduce behaviors and promote access to counseling and health services.

School Health Services
FoundCare, Inc. partners with Palm Beach Lakes Community High School to provide for on-site comprehensive physical services, immunizations, and urgent care.