California law SB 1266 amends California Education Code 49414 and requires school districts to provide emergency epinephrine for students suffering, or reasonably believed to be suffering, from anaphylaxis.  Anaphylaxis is a rapid, severe allergic response triggered by foods, insect stings, medications, latex materials, exercise, or in rare cases by unknown causes.  This is a life-threatening allergic condition, requiring immediate treatment.  Administering epinephrine to students during a medical emergency may help ensure the student’s health and safety at school.  Moreland School District has adopted a policy for standing orders to provide emergency medical care for anaphylaxis.

This emergency treatment is considered to be first aid and part of the requirement to give diligent care to the health of students (EC 49400 and 49407).  All students suffering, or reasonably believed to be suffering, from a severe life-threatening allergic reaction will be administered emergency epinephrine in the form of an epinephrine auto-injector by a licensed school nurse or by a trained unlicensed school staff.  If epinephrine is administered under the guidelines of EC 49414, staff members are required to activate Emergency Medical Services 911.  In the event that a school nurse or trained unlicensed school staff is not immediately available, staff will call 911.

If a student has a health condition that contraindicates the use of epinephrine, parent/guardian must notify the school in writing.