School Staff Anaphylaxis Preparedness Enhanced by AllergyAware Training Program

AllergyAware Online Course Proves Highly Effective for Anaphylaxis Preparedness

Toronto,ON – A comprehensive analysis of user data from the AllergyAware e-learning portal over the past seven years (2015-2022) reveals a highly accomplished program for equipping individuals with knowledge and confidence in managing anaphylaxis.The online course, designed for school personnel, has demonstrated meaningful impact, with a substantial proportion of users engaging with the material multiple times and overwhelmingly reporting increased self-efficacy.

Key Findings Highlight Program Strength:

High Engagement and Retention: More than a quarter of users have completed the AllergyAware course more than once, underscoring its perceived value and the ongoing need for updated data. A significant majority, 72.3%, completed the course a single time.
Geographic Reach: The English version of the course saw the highest participation from Ontario (65.3%), followed by Alberta (16.7%) and British Columbia (12.5%).The French language component attracted strong engagement from New Brunswick (41%), Québec (38%), and Ontario (15%).
User Satisfaction and Confidence: Following course completion, a survey of over 170,000 participants found that over 95% agreed or strongly agreed with statements related to their increased confidence in recognizing anaphylaxis and managing emergencies involving epinephrine auto-injectors (EAIs). Comments were predominantly positive, with some suggestions for potential in-person training elements to complement the online format.
Knowledge Acquisition: A 10-item knowledge quiz administered post-course yielded impressive results, with participants achieving a mean score of 9.05 (out of 10) and a modal score of 10. The pass rate for each quiz attempt was a remarkable 95.73%. Participants consistently demonstrated correct understanding of anaphylaxis recognition and EAI management through scenario-based questions.
Technical Performance: The online platform experienced minimal disruption, with sessions for participants encountering no technical issues averaging a duration of 23 minutes and 38 seconds, aligning closely with server estimates.

Limitations and Future Directions:

While the AllergyAware course has proven to be a scalable and effective solution, the study authors acknowledge certain limitations inherent in an online learning model. The inability to directly train or assess hands-on EAI administration proficiency in person is a key consideration. To further strengthen the evaluation of knowledge retention, the researchers suggest incorporating pre-testing, immediate post-testing, and delayed post-testing in future studies, rather than solely relying on immediate post-course quizzes. Additionally, directly assessing anaphylaxis management in real-world settings, rather than relying on self-reported proficiency, would provide even deeper insights into practical application.

The study authors emphasize the need for future research to explore how participants translate their acquired knowledge into real-world actions. This includes evaluating epinephrine autoinjector administration technique, assessing long-term retention of critical concepts, and understanding the broader impact of the course on anaphylaxis management practices within schools.

References:

1. Sharma B, Ayers S, Huang J, Gerdts J, Waserman S, Levinson AJ. Online food allergy and anaphylaxis education for school personnel is effective and scalable: experience with the AllergyAware e-learning portal from 2015 to 2022. Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol*. 2025; 21 (30): 1-10. doi: 10.1186/S13223-025-00977-0
2. CDC National School Food Allergy Guidelines. Food Allergy Research & Education. October 30, 2013. Accessed July 22, 2025.
3. National school policies. Food Allergy Canada.Accessed July 22, 2025.

what are the key signs that differentiate a mild allergic reaction from the onset of anaphylaxis?

Understanding Anaphylaxis in the School Setting

Anaphylaxis is a severe, perhaps life-threatening allergic reaction. Schools, as environments with a high concentration of children – many with undiagnosed or known food allergies, allergy emergencies, and other allergen sensitivities – must be prepared. Effective anaphylaxis management relies heavily on well-trained staff. the AllergyAware training program is designed to equip school personnel with the knowledge and skills needed to recognize, respond to, and prevent anaphylactic reactions. This isn’t just about allergy action plans; it’s about creating a culture of safety.

core Components of the AllergyAware Training Program

The AllergyAware program isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s a complete curriculum covering several vital areas:

Recognizing Allergic Reactions: Differentiating between mild allergy symptoms and the onset of anaphylaxis. Key signs include difficulty breathing, swelling of the tongue or throat, hives, vomiting, and dizziness.

Epinephrine Auto-Injector Training: Hands-on practice with various brands of epinephrine auto-injectors (like EpiPen, Auvi-Q, and Symjepi). Proper administration technique is crucial, and the program emphasizes overcoming hesitation.

understanding Allergy Action Plans: Decoding individual student allergy and anaphylaxis action plans. Staff learn where to locate these plans and how to implement them swiftly.

Preventative Strategies: Identifying common allergens (peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, soy, wheat, fish, shellfish, sesame) and implementing strategies to minimize exposure in the classroom and school habitat. This includes understanding cross-contamination risks.

Emergency Response Protocols: Step-by-step guidance on what to do during an anaphylactic event, including calling emergency services (911) and providing ongoing support to the student.

Legal Considerations & School Policies: Review of relevant legislation regarding allergy policies in schools and the school’s specific protocols.

Benefits of a Well-Trained Staff

Investing in staff training yields important benefits:

Improved Student Safety: The most crucial benefit. Rapid and appropriate response to anaphylaxis can save a child’s life.

Reduced Anxiety for students & Parents: Knowing that staff are prepared provides peace of mind to students with allergies and their families.

Enhanced School Reputation: demonstrates a commitment to student well-being, fostering a positive school climate.

Minimized Legal Risk: Compliance with allergy-related legislation and adherence to best practices can reduce potential liability.

Increased Staff Confidence: training empowers staff to act decisively in an emergency, reducing fear and uncertainty.

Practical Tips for Implementing AllergyAware in Your School

Successfully integrating AllergyAware requires a proactive approach:

1. Annual Training: Make AllergyAware training an annual requirement for all staff, including teachers, administrators, nurses, cafeteria workers, bus drivers, and support staff. CPR certification is also highly recommended.
2. Regular Drills: Conduct mock anaphylaxis drills to reinforce training and identify areas for improvement.
3. Accessible Epinephrine: Ensure epinephrine auto-injectors are readily available in multiple locations throughout the school (nurse’s office, classrooms, cafeteria, gym).
4. Clear Communication: Establish clear communication channels between the school nurse, teachers, and parents regarding student allergies.
5. Allergy-Aware Classroom Practices: Encourage teachers to implement allergy-aware practices, such as designated snack areas and avoiding the use of allergens in classroom activities.
6. Review and Update: Regularly review and update allergy policies and procedures to reflect current best practices and changes in student needs.

Case Study: Successful Anaphylaxis Response

In 2023, a first-grade student at Maplewood Elementary School experienced anaphylaxis after accidentally ingesting a peanut during lunch. Thanks to the school’s AllergyAware-trained staff,a teacher promptly recognized the symptoms,administered epinephrine,and called 911.Paramedics arrived quickly, and the student made a full recovery. This incident highlighted the critical importance of preparedness and the effectiveness of the AllergyAware program. The school nurse noted that the teacher’s calm and decisive action, directly attributable to the training, was instrumental in the positive outcome.

Resources for Further Information

Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE): https://www.foodallergy.org/

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI): https://www.aaaai.org/

National Association of School nurses (NASN): https://www.nasn.org/

* Epinephrine Auto-Injector Manufacturers: (EpiPen, Auvi-Q, Symjepi websites for training materials)