Take a Deep Breath — and Make a Plan

As your kids get ready to return to school after the holidays, follow these asthma guidelines to make sure they are prepared for emergencies.

Creating a plan for combating potential asthma emergencies is one of the best ways to help children manage this chronic disorder. Make the following preparations to keep your child safe in case an emergency arises.

• Schedule an appointment with your child’s asthma specialist. Regular check-ups ensure your child’s medication and monitoring are effective. Mention any new concerns or questions regarding seasonal allergies or environmental irritants.
• Understand prescriptions. If your child is prescribed a new medication, ask your physician about potential side effects or changes he or she may experience.
• Have an Asthma Action Plan. This document — which can be found at www.childrenscolorado.org  — should detail all of your child’s medications, symptoms that indicate an emergency and what to do in case an asthma-related emergency arises.
• Talk with teachers and school nurses. Provide your child’s school with his or her Asthma Action Plan, and make sure all teachers and coaches have a copy so they’ll be prepared to act quickly if an asthma-related emergency arises.
• Advocate for your child. Ask school officials if your child is allowed to carry and administer his or her asthma medication. If the school requires written permission or paperwork from a physician, obtain that information before classes start.
• And in case of emergency…Talk with school staff members about how asthma emergencies have been handled in the past and confirm that the school knows the best way to get in touch with you.

For more information about controlling your child’s asthma or to download an Asthma Action Plan form, visit www.childrenscolorado.org, search for and then choose “Asthma” and go to “What is asthma?”