Food Allergies in School: A School Nurse’s Perspective

Welcome to the latest episode of the Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Innovations podcast. This episode explores how school nurses help keep children with food allergies safe at school. From making sure medicines are available when needed, to training teachers and talking with families, school nurses play a big part in protecting schoolchildren every day.

Co-hosts Payel Gupta, MD, and Kortney are joined by Elizabeth Elliott, RN, a school nurse and President of the Maryland Association of School Health Nurses. Together, they talk about what school nurses do, how they prepare for emergencies, and how they can partner with parents and teachers to build safer schools.

You can listen to the podcast on ItchPodcast.com or download it for listening anytime, anywhere, at:

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Any mention of brands is also informational and not an endorsement. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical questions or concerns.

Thank you to Genentech for sponsoring this podcast episode.

How schools can help keep kids with food allergies safe

Living with food allergies can be stressful, but school nurses, teachers and families can work together to make each school day calm and safe. Here are some key takeaways from the podcast:

  • School nurses connect everyone. They help families, teachers, and doctors work together so children can learn and play safely.
  • Clear plans make a big difference. Action plans and 504 forms help staff know what to do if a child has a food allergy or asthma emergency.
  • Training saves lives. School nurses teach staff how to spot allergic reactions and when to use epinephrine.
  • Safety goes beyond the classroom. Nurses plan for safe meal times, field trips, and bus rides so kids stay protected everywhere at school.
  • Families can advocate too. Parents can support their school nurse by sharing up-to-date information and speaking up for more allergy-awareness and resources.

Timestamps for our podcast about school nurses and food allergies

01:04 – Introduction of Elizabeth Elliot, RN

02:17 – Role of the school nurse

03:55 – School allergy policies

07:29 – Staying organized

10:30 – Managing many students

14:18 – Asthma or allergic reaction?

15:05 – Working during summer

17:40 – Where epinephrine is kept

20:11 – No-food zones

22:34 – Epinephrine on the bus

24:21 – Field trips

31:05 – Schools without a nurse

More resources about food allergies for nurses