How to help with a severe allergic reaction

Allergies are a growing concern in early years' settings. A severe allergic reaction can be triggered by foods, medicines, insect stings and other substances, and young children may be unable to recognise or communicate their symptoms. By ensuring staff can quickly identify and respond to an allergic reaction, and by putting effective procedures in place, settings can help keep children safe and provide reassurance to parents and carers.

If a child in your setting has a known severe allergy, you should have their adrenaline autoinjector in an accessible location, which will help them in case something triggers a severe allergic reaction.

A severe allergic reaction, or anaphylaxis, can quickly affect a child, making it difficult for them to breathe.

 

How to help:

1. Call 999 immediately or get someone else to do it.

2. If the child has an adrenaline auto-injector, you can help them to use it or do it for them, by following the instructions on the side.

3. Reassure them and make them comfortable while you wait for the ambulance to arrive.

 

Catch up on our webinar

Watch our webinar with Allergy UK for practical guidance on recognising severe allergic reactions and anaphylaxis, including a first aid demonstration and Kate's inspiring story of living with a severe nut allergy.

Catch-up on our webinar here: https://streamyard.com/s45qzfmxcbvc

 

Paediatric first aid training

Our two-day EYFS compliant first aid course is ideal for people who work with young children, such as nursery staff or childminders. Book online today!