Anaphylaxis Kits for Schools
The ARK Anaphylaxis Rescue Kit has been designed so that schools can store and make easily accessible medical devices used in the event of an anaphylactic shock.
Why are anaphylaxis kits important?
Keeping an Anaphylaxis Rescue Kit for emergency use will have many benefits. It could prevent an unnecessary and traumatic trip to hospital for a child, and potentially save their life. Parents are likely to have greater peace of mind about sending their child to school.
Having a protocol that sets out how and when the adrenaline auto-injector should be used will also protect staff by ensuring they know what to do in the event of a child having experiencing anaphylactic shock.
How can I get an Anaphylaxis Kit for my school?
Schools can buy adrenaline auto-injectors, inhalers and spacers from a pharmaceutical supplier, without a prescription, provided the general advice relating to these transactions are observed.
A supplier will need a request signed by the principal or head teacher (ideally on appropriately headed paper) stating:
1) the name of the school for which the product is required
2) the purpose for which that product is required
3) the total quantity required
Want to know more?
Download our leaflet for schools by clicking the link below:
What is included?
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2 EpiPen adrenaline auto-injectors (senior kits - 300mcg, junior kits - 150mcg)
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1 salbutamol metered dose inhaler
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1 plastic spacer compatible with the inhaler
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Instructions on using the adrenaline auto-injector and inhaler with spacer
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Instructions on storing the adrenaline auto-injector
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Instructions on cleaning and storing the inhaler
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A checklist of adrenaline auto-injectors, inhaler, identified by their batch number and expiry date, with monthly checks recorded
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A note of the arrangements for replacing the adrenaline auto-injectors, inhaler and spacer
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A list for children permitted to use the emergency adrenaline auto-injector
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6 security ties
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Wall mounting
What more do I need to know?
The change in legislation in 2017 allows schools to make the life-saving decision to obtain spare AAI devices without a prescription. These devices can be bought in addition to any devices already carried by school pupils.
Schools have an insurance in place to cover staff who may find it necessary to administer medication such as AAIs, with prior written authorisation from the parent or guardian. This is a legal requirement, as stated by the Department of Education.
Be aware of the high risk areas in your school:
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CATERING FACILITIES (CANTEENS & DINING HALLS) in case of allergen consumption.
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PHYSICAL EDUCATION FACILITIES for outside activities where there is a risk of bee or wasp stings.
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SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION for out-of-school extracurricular activities.