What a School Nurse Wants Parents to Know About the September Asthma Peak

Welcome to a new episode of the Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Innovations podcast. We look at the September Asthma Peak from a school nurse’s view. Asthma Peak Week is the third week of September. This is the time of year when more children have asthma flares and go to the ER.

Co-hosts Payel Gupta, MD, a board-certified allergist and immunologist, and Kortney, a patient advocate, are joined by Liz Elliott, a nurse who works in school health for Montgomery County, Maryland.

Liz answers the questions parents ask most about asthma at school. She talks about what happens if a child has an asthma flare. She also talks about where a child’s inhaler should stay — with them or in the health office.

Check out the podcast on ItchPodcast.com or download it for listening anytime, anywhere on your preferred podcast player!

Listen to September Asthma Peak Podcast

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Thank you to AstraZeneca and Amgen for sponsoring this podcast episode.

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.

Key Takeaways About the September Asthma Peak at School

The September Asthma Peak can catch families off guard. It often happens right after a new school year starts. A school nurse sees this happen firsthand. She shares what parents can do to be ready.

  • Can my child carry their own inhaler? Yes, but the rules may differ for young kids and older kids. Each state has its own rules, too.
  • Does the school keep extra quick-relief inhalers? This is called stock albuterol. Learn what it is and what happens if your child’s own inhaler is not at school.
  • What happens if my child has an asthma flare at school? Learn the steps a school nurse takes. 
  • What signs might mean my child’s asthma is not doing well? Night coughing and a cough that will not go away can be early warning signs.
  • Why do home and school plans need to match? The plan your doctor signs must match what the school has on file. Bring the right paperwork on day one.

Timestamps for Our Podcast on Preparing for the September Asthma Peak

02:42 – What is Asthma Peak Week?

04:38 – What a school nurse sees in September

07:07 – How families can support kids at school

12:31 – Signs a child’s asthma is not under control

16:04 – Gap between home and school action plans

19:04 – Giving medication at school

24:23 – The nurse’s role as case manager

26:50 – What happens during an asthma attack at school?

31:22 – Stock albuterol in schools

39:20 – 504 and IEP plans

More Resources About Asthma Peak Week

Podcasts on asthma and allergies at school