Are teachers knowledgeable and confident about dealing with allergy emergencies?

Results 724 teachers (8%) completed the survey. 48% had at least one student under their direct supervision with a severe allergy. 28% believed that all students with severe allergies had a management plan for treatment. 18% never reviewed this plan. More than 80% were confident in recognizing and knowing what to do for a severe reaction, and in using an epinephrine auto-injector. Teachers learned auto-injector technique from public/community health professionals (63%), parents (19%), or were self-taught (7%). 12% had no instruction. Children carried the auto-injector in 50% of cases. 11% reported that auto-injectors were locked in the principal’s office and 21% were uncertain of its location. 91% identified common causes of anaphylaxis. More than 70% would administer the auto-injector with symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, looking blue, loss of consciousness, tongue swelling or shortness of breath after possible ingestion; less than 53% would administer the autoinjector for generalized itching, generalized hives, or feeling faint. 24% would administer the auto-injector without symptoms. 59% identified the appropriate level of activity after auto-injector use. To reduce risk of an allergic reaction, 80% thought that instructing the child not to share food, 69% thought that washing hands with soap and water after eating, and 66% thought that a total ban of peanut-containing food would be effective. 25% incorrectly thought that using a hand sanitizer would reduce risk.