Asthma Kits for Schools
The ARK Asthma Rescue Kit has been designed so that schools can store and make easily accessible medical devices used in the event of an asthma attack.
Why are asthma kits important?
Keeping an Asthma Rescue Kit for emergency use will have many benefits. It could prevent an unnecessary and traumatic trip to hospital for a child, and potentially save their life. Parents are likely to have greater peace of mind about sending their child to school.
Having a protocol that sets out how and when the inhaler should be used will also protect staff by ensuring they know what to do in the event of a child having an asthma attack.
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How can I get an Asthma Kit for my school?
Schools can buy inhalers and spacers from a pharmaceutical supplier, without a prescription, provided the general advice relating to these transactions are observed.
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A supplier will need a request signed by the principal or head teacher (ideally on appropriately headed paper) stating:
1) the name of the school for which the product is required
2) the purpose for which that product is required
3) the total quantity required
Want to know more?
Download our leaflet for schools by clicking the link below:
What is included?
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A salbutamol metered dose inhaler
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Two plastic spacers compatible with the inhaler
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Instructions on using the inhaler and spacer
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A list for children permitted to use the emergency inhaler
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Instructions on cleaning and storing the inhaler
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A note of the arrangements for replacing the inhaler and spacers
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A checklist of inhalers, identified by their batch number and expiry date, with monthly checks recorded
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6 security ties
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Wall mounting
What else do I need to know?
People who have been prescribed an inhaler should carry at least one with them at all times in case of an asthma attack.
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Under legislation outlined in The Medicines Act in 2014, schools are allowed to purchase life-saving asthma kits to provide essential inhalers and spacers to pupils in the case of an emergency.
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For the Department of Health guidance on supporting pupils with asthma in schools click here.