Crandall ISD

Anaphylaxis (Severe Allergic Reaction)

Anaphylaxis is a sudden and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. The most serious symptoms include difficulty breathing, a significant drop in blood pressure, or shock.

Common triggers include:

• Certain foods (e.g., peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish)
• Insect stings
• Medications
• Latex
• Physical activity (exercise-induced anaphylaxis)

Emergency Treatment

The first-line treatment for anaphylaxis is epinephrine, typically administered via an auto-injector (e.g., EpiPen®, EpiPen Jr®, or Auvi-Q®).

Crandall ISD’s Commitment to Student Safety

While Crandall ISD cannot guarantee an allergen-free environment, we are committed to doing everything possible to ensure the safety of students with life-threatening allergies. The district follows state and federal guidelines to support students with severe allergies so they can safely participate in school activities.

Student Rights and Responsibilities

Students at risk for anaphylaxis may carry and self-administer their epinephrine auto-injectors at school or school events if:

• A physician or licensed healthcare provider authorizes the medication and self-administration.
• The student demonstrates the ability to self-administer the medication to both the healthcare provider and the school nurse.

Parents should contact the campus nurse before enrollment or at the beginning of the school year to complete the necessary paperwork, including an Allergy Action Plan.

Emergency Preparedness on Campus

Each Crandall ISD campus maintains an emergency supply of epinephrine and diphenhydramine (Benadryl) for use in unexpected or undiagnosed anaphylactic reactions. Nurses are trained in:

• Recognizing symptoms of anaphylaxis
• Administering emergency medications
• Following district procedures for medication storage, use, and disposal

Parent Responsibilities

Parents of students with known anaphylaxis are expected to:

• Provide the school nurse with an individual supply of emergency medication
• Ensure all required medical forms are completed and updated annually

Food Allergy 

A food allergy is a potentially serious condition that occurs when the body reacts to certain foods or food additives. In some cases, this reaction can be life-threatening.

A severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis, can happen within minutes to several hours after exposure. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention and can be fatal if not treated promptly.

What Parents Need to Know

If your child has a known food allergy:

• Please notify your campus nurse immediately.
• You will need to complete a Diet Modification Form, which must be signed by your child’s physician.
• Return the completed form to the school nurse as soon as possible to ensure your child’s safety at school.

Our Commitment

Crandall ISD is dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for all students. We work closely with families and healthcare providers to manage food allergies and prevent allergic reactions on campus.