Date of Graduation
Fall 12-11-2020
Document Access
Project/Capstone - Global access
Degree Name
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
College/School
School of Nursing and Health Professions
First Advisor
Susan Mortell
Abstract
Problem: Statistics show in a 2014 nationwide study that a 16% rate of anaphylaxis was reported in over five thousand schools. The anaphylactic reaction occurred between 79-83 % in classrooms and 12-15% in lunchrooms; 19% of the life-threatening reactions occurred on field trips, playgrounds, and other school events. Recent studies identified a knowledge deficit among school personnel when it comes to addressing food allergies.
Context: The microsystem that will benefit from this project is part of a broader educational organization, a School District, in San Jose, Ca. The organization serves over 9000 students with diverse backgrounds, rich in ethnic and cultural diversity, with a curriculum designed to meet all the students' needs.
Intervention: This project's current goal consists of identifying all children with food allergies, opening a communication link between the district nurses, parents, doctor, and school staff, implementing care plans for all children with food allergies, and educating all personnel involved in the process of care. Using educational resources and raising awareness among school personnel of food allergies being potentially life-threatening would decrease food allergy incidences in school settings.
Results: This project is expected to increase awareness among school staff, teachers, health assistants, and other auxiliary staff members. By the current date, over 50% of the selected staff got trained regarding anaphylaxis signs and symptoms and action steps needed in case of an event. It is expected that by the end of 2020, over 70% of the selected staff will have completed the planned training.
Conclusion: Creating and implementing a program to reduce the incidence of anaphylactic events within the School District improves students' safety and the quality of care provided. A consistent training program has the benefits of increasing awareness among school staff related to signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis and the necessary actions that need to be taken regarding the occurrence of anaphylactic reactions in school settings.
Recommended Citation
Muresan, Sabina L., "Reducing the Incidence of Anaphylaxis Events in School Settings" (2020). Master's Projects and Capstones. 1121.
https://repository.usfca.edu/capstone/1121
