Law lets pupils carry fast-acting inhalers

Many parents said their kids can’t carry inhalers in school.

COLUMBUS — Many parents, and even some schools, are unaware that Ohio law allows asthmatic children to carry and self-administer their fast-acting “quick relief” inhalers.

A lot of schools have policies banning children from carrying or self-medicating prescription medicines.

The American Lung Association of Ohio says that students with asthma can run into serious, sometimes even deadly trouble if they need to use a rescue inhaler, but misinformation about state laws and school policy keeps them from having immediate access to these life-saving medications.

Ohio and 45 other states have laws allowing asthmatic pupils to carry and use inhalers, the group said.

Ohio’s law requires a written “carry permission” statement signed by both a parent and a physician.

Pennsylvania law requires schools to develop a policy that allows children with asthma to carry and self-administer inhalers.

What survey showed

A Back to School survey conducted by the national association showed that 74 percent of parents said their children are allowed to have their inhalers at school but not allowed to keep the inhalers with them in their desks, pockets or backpacks.

This means pupils who may have breathing problems on the playground or in the gym may not have access to medications, the association said.

The survey is a red flag to parents of children with asthma and school officials, said Bernadette A. Toomey, American Lung Association president and chief executive officer.

The association’s “Back to School with Asthma” campaign offers these tips to help create a safe school experience for the 6.5 million children with asthma:

•Make sure your school knows if state law allows children to carry and use inhalers and be prepared to give the school any paperwork.

•Develop a written Asthma Action Plan for your child. Work with the child’s doctor on a plan that lays out your child’s asthma triggers and symptoms, medications, emergency contact numbers and what to do if medications don’t improve an attack.

•Share that plan with the school and give copies to all who will come in regular contact with your child.

The Web site www.backtoschoolwithasthma.org offers a free back-to-school guide.