TABLE 2—

Elements to Consider When Determining Appropriateness of Self-Carrying and Self-Administering of Inhaler Medication in Schools

Student factors

Asthma severity and morbidity (hospitalizations, emergency department visits, severe episodes, types of triggers) Student’s asthma knowledge, attitude, skills, and behavior (awareness of asthma signs and symptoms, desire to self-carry inhaler, willingness to self-administer and report use of inhaler, understanding of importance of not sharing inhaler with other students, correct peak flow and inhaler technique) History of asthma episodes at school Adherence to school rules regarding medication administration Inhaler self-carrying experience in other settings (child care, camp, after-school care, at friends’ homes)

Family factors

Desire of parents/guardians for student to self-carry and self-administer medications with an inhaler Collaboration of parents/guardians with school team; permission for physician and school to share information

School factors

Health staff availability (whether or not there are full-time school nurses or health assistants) School size (whether or not there is quick and easy access to health room) Ability to reduce student’s triggers at school Proximity and availability of inhalers from local emergency medical services

Health care provider factors

Completion of physician’s or other health care provider’s written asthma management plan and all required forms Student’s education by physician or other health care provider about asthma generally, controlling asthma, and proper use of inhalers, spacers, and peak flow meters Assessment by physician or other health care provider of student’s technique for inhaler, spacer, and peak flow meter use