Epipens

[jacjon]

School nurses - do you keep epipens in the clinic or in the classroom. I have been a school nurse for approx 3 months and the epipens are in the clinic. My thought is that the teachers should be trained and kept in the classroom with the student. But, then agan, the student goes to lunch, art, PE, recess, etc. would it be better to keep it in the clinic where we know where it is?? Thanks for your help!!

[michigooseBSN]

In my school system EpiPens are kept in the nurse's office since we have a full-time RN in each school. The only time EpiPens are kept in the classroom is when and if (very very rare) the doctor orders one to be kept there. In that case the parents supply 2, one for the classroom and one for the nurse's office. That has happened for only one child in the 8 years I've been here and I've got 20-25 prescribed and kept in my office every year. And yes, every staff member is trained every year (by the nurse) in anaphyllaxis recognition and EpiPen administration. This is a town-wide School Committee written policy.

[Keepstanding, ASN, RN]

Same as Michigoose.....our epi-pens are kept in the health clinic. They do go with the students on all field trips. Our staff is trained to administer them as well. This systems works out nicely and I have never had a problem with it. :bowingpur

[PvtSchlNurse]

Epipens are kept on a bulletin board in a labeled zip lock baggie with a copy of the Allergic reaction Health Plan in the Nurse's Office.

Epipens for food allergies go to the lunch room daily as well. (The Nurse's Office is Some distance from the lunch room.)

[--S--]

I also keep our epi pens in the office in my med cabinet, there is an epi pen magnet on the drawer where they are kept for easy recognition. When they go on a field trip, they will be sent with the student's teacher.