Allergic Reaction Policy

Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre

Allergic Reaction Policy

Policy

Allergic reactions can be triggered by food, medications, insect stings, pollen, or other substances. An allergic reaction may cause an individual to have a mild or severe reaction. A severe allergic reaction may become life threatening and the safety of the individual who is experiencing the reaction will be treated with the utmost seriousness.

A photography of any child/children who has an allergic reaction is to be placed in the room which they attend setting out the details of their allergy and the steps to be taken if a reaction occurs.

A note should be placed on the entrance way to the Centre stating that it is a Nut Free Centre.

The following are some or the more common signs and symptoms of allergic reactions:

Mild

  • Itchiness

  • Skin redness

  • Slight swelling

  • Stuffy, runny nose

  • Sneezing

  • Itchy, watery eyes

  • Red bumps (hives) anywhere on the body

Severe

  • Swelling of the mouth or tongue

  • Difficulty swallowing or speaking

  • Wheezing or difficulty breathing

  • Abdominal(belly) pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea

  • Dizziness or fainting

Procedure

For a mild reaction:

  1. Staff will try to make the child as comfortable as possible.

  2. If medication is provided by the primary caregiver, the Illness and Medicine Administration Policy must be followed.

  3. Parents/guardians will be notified of mild reaction.

  4. Staff will share information to parents upon collection of the child.

For a severe reaction:

  1. Staff will make the child as comfortable as possible.

  2. If medication is provided for a severe allergic reaction, the Illness and Medicine Administration Policy must be followed.

  3. A call for emergency medical help is to be placed as quickly as possible.

  4. Parents must be notified as soon as possible if a severe allergic reaction occurs to inform them of the condition of the child.

  5. Parents will be given updates as often as necessary. If a child is taken to the hospital, the Critical Incident Policy will be followed.

Updated 12 September 2018