Serious shortcomings in the management of children with anaphylaxis in Scottish schools
2006

Managing Anaphylaxis in Scottish Schools

Sample size: 250 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Rankin Kirsty E, Sheikh Aziz

Primary Institution: University of Edinburgh

Hypothesis

How prepared are Scottish schools to manage children at risk of anaphylaxis?

Conclusion

Most schools with children at risk of anaphylaxis have trained staff and access to emergency medication, but many lack effective prevention strategies.

Supporting Evidence

  • 60% of schools responded to the survey.
  • 80% of schools with at-risk children had personalized care plans.
  • 97% of these schools had access to adrenaline on-site.
  • Only 48% of schools without at-risk children had trained staff.
  • 12% of schools without at-risk children had access to adrenaline.

Takeaway

Schools with kids who might have severe allergies usually have plans to help them, but many schools don't do enough to stop allergic reactions from happening.

Methodology

A national postal survey was conducted among 250 Scottish schools, with responses from 148 schools.

Potential Biases

Non-response may reflect a lack of interest in the subject, potentially skewing the results.

Limitations

The study had a sub-optimal response rate, with 102 schools not responding, which may affect the comprehensiveness of the findings.

Participant Demographics

The study included a diverse range of Scottish schools, representing various types and locations.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Confidence Interval

95% CI 53–68

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pmed.0030326

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