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Daycare Center and Family Home Forum>What’s Your Rule About Epi-Pens?
cheerfuldom 07:44 PM 08-23-2012
I accepted a child into care and mom did not tell me until their first day that they have a peanut allergy and also an epi pen! Not happy about this.

We discussed the issue and kid is seeing an allergist and has had peanuts recently without an allergy issue. Mom says they have never used the pen and have not had any allergy issues/hives/etc for over a year (kid is 3) but that the doctor insists that they have an epi pen just in case. I have told mom that I do not guarantee a peanut free home and that I do not have any experience with epi pens.

Kid is not scheduled to come on a permanent basis for another week and half (finishing out the time in the current childcare arrangement).

What would you do?
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EchoMom 07:50 PM 08-23-2012
I have a 2 year old with a peanut allergy, has been to the allergist, and they gave me epi-pens to keep here at my house. It makes me nervous as no one has been very clear with me as to how bad the allergic reaction is, what happens, how sensitive he is to them, etc. So I just don't give him anything with nuts and hope I never have to use it! Although, using it seems very very easy if an emergency did happen.
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momma2girls 07:53 PM 08-23-2012
You will have to make sure and check all labels on everything you pourchase for snacks, etc.... there are many, many, many labels that say made in peanut factories, or lines. You have to be so careful!! It also depends on the severity of the allergy. There are many that are deathly allergic and you can't have anything made on peanut lines in your house, peanut butter, nuts, etc......
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DCMama 08:00 PM 08-23-2012
IF it's still a trial period I would explain to them I am unable to serve their child. It's just not safe if you're not confident or comfortable with it gl
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cheerfuldom 08:03 PM 08-23-2012
I have already told mom that I will not be altering anything here in order to accommodate a peanut allergy, that is something that does not work for my program and is too much of a liability for me to promise that. I have 5 daycare kids total plus a very active household (family and friends over in the evenings and weekends) and I absolutely would never guarantee that I could keep a peanut free home. Kid eats breakfast and dinner at home, and is sent a sack lunch for daycare so mom provides food in that regard.

She said she understands that and considering the past year (no allergic reactions even when big sibling gave kid peanuts on accident), she is fine with the arrangement in my household.

I will have her sign a medical permission form/release regarding the epi pen use in case of emergency.

anything else I am missing?
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BumbleBee 08:13 PM 08-23-2012
Originally Posted by cheerfuldom:
I accepted a child into care and mom did not tell me until their first day that they have a peanut allergy and also an epi pen! Not happy about this.

We discussed the issue and kid is seeing an allergist and has had peanuts recently without an allergy issue. Mom says they have never used the pen and have not had any allergy issues/hives/etc for over a year (kid is 3) but that the doctor insists that they have an epi pen just in case. I have told mom that I do not guarantee a peanut free home and that I do not have any experience with epi pens.

Kid is not scheduled to come on a permanent basis for another week and half (finishing out the time in the current childcare arrangement).

What would you do?
I would not give the child any peanuts or tree nut products. Ask mom for a list of foods that the child cannot have.

Honestly, I would insist an epi-pen be at your home. You never know when an allergy will flare up and it's better to be safe than sorry. Epi-pens are pretty straight forward to use. They do have 'trainers' that sometimes come with the epi-pen. If that is the case, ask mom to bring in the trainer and show you how to use it.

If I remember correctly, all epi-pens have the directions written on them in a 1, 2, 3 step manner with pictures.

Additionally, I would have mom talk to the Dr. about having Benadryl on hand. Sometimes, if it's a minor reaction, Benadryl will calm it down before it gets to be full blown anaphylactic shock. Perhaps ask if the child has an inhaler as well. Some children with peanut allergies do and some don't. If the child does, I would insist that you have that too. In a pinch if you cannot access the epi-pen quickly but can access the inhaler you can use to inhaler to keep the air way open for a short period of time until you can access the epi-pen.
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cheerfuldom 08:25 PM 08-23-2012
Originally Posted by Trummynme:
I would not give the child any peanuts or tree nut products. Ask mom for a list of foods that the child cannot have.

Honestly, I would insist an epi-pen be at your home. You never know when an allergy will flare up and it's better to be safe than sorry. Epi-pens are pretty straight forward to use. They do have 'trainers' that sometimes come with the epi-pen. If that is the case, ask mom to bring in the trainer and show you how to use it.

If I remember correctly, all epi-pens have the directions written on them in a 1, 2, 3 step manner with pictures.

Additionally, I would have mom talk to the Dr. about having Benadryl on hand. Sometimes, if it's a minor reaction, Benadryl will calm it down before it gets to be full blown anaphylactic shock. Perhaps ask if the child has an inhaler as well. Some children with peanut allergies do and some don't. If the child does, I would insist that you have that too. In a pinch if you cannot access the epi-pen quickly but can access the inhaler you can use to inhaler to keep the air way open for a short period of time until you can access the epi-pen.
thank you for those thoughts!
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e.j. 08:30 PM 08-23-2012
Originally Posted by cheerfuldom:
anything else I am missing?
Both of my kids have an EpiPen and I always had to supply their schools with an Allergy Action Plan and an Anaphylaxis Medication Order filled out and signed by their doctors. On the forms, their doctors had to list their allergy triggers (peanuts in your dcg's case), Symptoms to watch for like swelling, flushed face/body, cold clammy skin, difficulty breathing, cramps, diarrhea, etc. and Medication to be used (Epi Pen) and under what circumstances it should be used, any special instructions and any possible side effects to watch for. If I enrolled a child who came with an Epi, I would want all of that info in addition to permission slips signed by the parent allowing me to administer meds.
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e.j. 08:34 PM 08-23-2012
Here's a form similar to the one I had to have for my kids. https://www.foodallergy.org/files/FAAP.pdf
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Solandia 03:34 AM 08-24-2012
Let me get this right...this mom enrolled her child, then brought the child to your daycare before mentioning a major potential health issue that is your direct responsibility to control?

Oh, HELL NO. I would drop enrollment the child during the probationary period. Nothing to do with the health issue, and EVERYTHING to do with the mom thinking it is not an issue. My last couple CPR/first aid renewal we did epi training & AED...is that not standard across the country? But it is super easy. That isn't the issue, but the mom trying to 'convince' you that it is no big deal. Did mom tell you if you have to use the epipen, you still have to call 911 and the child needs to go to the hospital...or was that not a big deal to mention, either?

Nope, I don't deal with parents like that.
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My3cents 04:12 AM 08-24-2012
I would not want this liability. I think the mom knew that if she told you the child had an allergy that you probably would not have taken the child as most daycare homes don't want to have to deal with this.

One of the first ?'s I ask during an interview and on the first phone call, is does your child have any allergies- I probably ask this more then once. One of my favorite foods is peanut butter. Peanuts are used in many products and I don't want to have to admit them from our diet and home. A true peanut allergy can be deathly. If the child has an e pen most likely its not just a minor allergy that benadryl can fix. One thing that both my husband and I are strong on, because it takes a revamp of your whole home, diet, and what comes into your home. I am talking about a true peanut/nut allergy. If it was mild and controllable I would want a doctors note stating the severity. Having this child in my program would not be a good fit for me, and the fact that she didn't mention this to you concerns me too.
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Sunchimes 04:26 AM 08-24-2012
I had one with a peanut allergy until recently. The doctor wouldn't give her an epi-pen until she was 2 (next month) at which time she will be re-tested. As far as I know, she has only had 2 attacks in the year I've known her. Both sent her to ER, but neither one happened on my watch. I went radical and totally peanut free. Since PB is the only sandwich I like, it was hard, but it was harder seeing that poor little thing after one of her attacks. Nothing came into my house unless I read the label. It wasn't hard, and we didn't suffer. She left last month, and we had our first PB sandwiches in day care. The other kids weren't impressed, and I probably won't bother again.
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momofboys 04:35 AM 08-24-2012
I would require the parents to provide her food. I would require a signed release leaving you blameless if an incident were to occur under your watch. I would think it through some more before you proceed. If you don't want to take the child I think it is fair for you to tell her so - after all she was misleading you by not lettign you know in advance! Not cool!!!

As a mom of a parent with a peanut allergy I would not proceed with a provider who can't accomodate me (or is not willing to ensure a peanut-free environment). A mistake on your part could be deadly for this child. A child can be exposed to a food item & not have any issues - then BOOM one day it is a huge anaphylactic reaction. I am not saying you are wrong for having a nonchalant attitude about it (saying you won't go peanut-free) after all the parent sprung this on you last minute which I think is very wrong. Personally if if were me as the parent I would have went all out to make sure the provider was OK with said allergy & knew all she needed to know. I am surprised the parent still wants to proceed with care with you. If you don't feel comfortable with it I would let her know & void your contract due to her leaving out important information!
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DaisyMamma 05:57 AM 08-24-2012
Are you required to be med. certified to administer the epi?
My state requires this. I got certified once and never renewed because I didn't want the liability.
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texascare 06:33 AM 08-24-2012
Make sure you have an Epi pen and some Benadryl on hand! I have had several kids with allergies and a pen but for me it isn't a big deal because my son is a Type 1 Diabetic and I could in an emergency use an Epi pen.
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littlemissmuffet 06:48 AM 08-24-2012
Originally Posted by cheerfuldom:
I accepted a child into care and mom did not tell me until their first day that they have a peanut allergy and also an epi pen! Not happy about this.

We discussed the issue and kid is seeing an allergist and has had peanuts recently without an allergy issue. Mom says they have never used the pen and have not had any allergy issues/hives/etc for over a year (kid is 3) but that the doctor insists that they have an epi pen just in case. I have told mom that I do not guarantee a peanut free home and that I do not have any experience with epi pens.

Kid is not scheduled to come on a permanent basis for another week and half (finishing out the time in the current childcare arrangement).

What would you do?
I ALWAYS ask during an interview if a child has any allergies, special dietary needs, etc.
However, it was really irresponsible of this parent not to mention such an important aspect of this child's life to his future CARE PROVIDER!

I would have to term, I don't take children with serious/potentially fatal allergies.
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itlw8 08:27 AM 08-24-2012
also it is my understanding if an epi pen is used the next step is call the amblance. so you need permission to do so and a statement saying the parents will pay for it The epi pen only gets you until you can get medical care.
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KDC 08:32 AM 08-24-2012
I have a son with a minor peanut allergy. (on a scale of one to five, it was about a 1). As long as he doesn't eat peanut butter directly, or anything made with peanuts, he's pretty much fine. (made on same equipment or in same factory is just fine). I have other kids that eat peanut butter around him, and it doesn't bother him one bit. The severity of the allergy depends on each time it happens and the kid. So if they had one reaction and had just a few hives, benedryl probably took care of it... but that's not always the same for the second reaction and until it happens, you just don't know? I don't think the parents would intentionally hide it, if it's so minor --they probably just thought it's not a big deal, they're just used to it and it didn't occur to them to mention it earlier.

If it really does upset you, or you feel you can't handle it, I'd tell the parents right away to be fair to them. It would have been helpful for you to know earlier to help in the decision making process to determine if they were a good fit, some parents just don't see our side. Good luck!
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cheerfuldom 08:33 AM 08-24-2012
Originally Posted by littlemissmuffet:
I ALWAYS ask during an interview if a child has any allergies, special dietary needs, etc.
However, it was really irresponsible of this parent not to mention such an important aspect of this child's life to his future CARE PROVIDER!

I would have to term, I don't take children with serious/potentially fatal allergies.
I did ask if there was any special needs or medical concerns and was told no. The mom said she totally forgot about it till the morning of the first drop off because they have never used the pen and have not had any reaction issues for a year.
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EntropyControlSpecialist 08:55 AM 08-24-2012
I love Epi Pens. You never know when you will need it. If the child is allergic to peanuts, the child is then potentially allergic to other foods items.

Store the Epi Pen out of reach of children because they can and will stab themselves with it if it is left around. I have heard horror stories.

Are you not required to take First Aid and CPR training? We were shown how to use an Epi Pen in First Aid class. They are extremely easy to use.
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cheerfuldom 09:00 AM 08-24-2012
Originally Posted by EntropyControlSpecialist:
I love Epi Pens. You never know when you will need it. If the child is allergic to peanuts, the child is then potentially allergic to other foods items.

Store the Epi Pen out of reach of children because they can and will stab themselves with it if it is left around. I have heard horror stories.

Are you not required to take First Aid and CPR training? We were shown how to use an Epi Pen in First Aid class. They are extremely easy to use.
I am not required to do anything because I am unlicensed. However, I do take a First Aid CPR class and will be having a refresher course in the next few weeks. The last class I took was by the Red Cross but did not discuss epi-pens....which I guess was a huge miss on the teacher's part because I have now heard that it should be a regular part of first aid training.
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BumbleBee 09:46 AM 08-24-2012
Originally Posted by cheerfuldom:
I am not required to do anything because I am unlicensed. However, I do take a First Aid CPR class and will be having a refresher course in the next few weeks. The last class I took was by the Red Cross but did not discuss epi-pens....which I guess was a huge miss on the teacher's part because I have now heard that it should be a regular part of first aid training.
This year was the first year that my first aid training included epi-pen use.
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EntropyControlSpecialist 10:15 AM 08-24-2012
Originally Posted by cheerfuldom:
I am not required to do anything because I am unlicensed. However, I do take a First Aid CPR class and will be having a refresher course in the next few weeks. The last class I took was by the Red Cross but did not discuss epi-pens....which I guess was a huge miss on the teacher's part because I have now heard that it should be a regular part of first aid training.
Oh no! Well that is good you'll have a refresher course (whether you keep a child with a peanut allergy or not) that will include the EpiPen.
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momma2girls 10:33 AM 08-24-2012
There is a huge responsiblity on the daycare for this type or any allergy. I am a nurse and depending on the severity, I myself wouldn't want this responsiblity. There is so much out there now, even if you have any thing with nuts, or just plain peanut butter in your house. If someone comes into your home and ate peanut butter cereal, or anything nuts, that also can be very dangerous. I have peanut butter items in my cupboards, freezer, and cereal. If you have never dealt with peanut butter, and nut allergies, please be cautious!! There are labels on everything you will need to read. Many of them say made in peanut lines or peanut factories. Good luck!!
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Willow 10:48 AM 08-24-2012
Originally Posted by cheerfuldom:
I did ask if there was any special needs or medical concerns and was told no. The mom said she totally forgot about it till the morning of the first drop off because they have never used the pen and have not had any reaction issues for a year.
That's bologna.

I don't think any mother with half a brain would merely "forget" a detail like that.


It reads intentional, and that wouldn't fly with me. I'd have sent them on their way the moment she finally chose to disclose it.



My son has had kids in his class with peanut allergies. My son couldn't even have peanut butter toast in the morning for breakfast because even arriving an hour later if they caught wind of his breath they'd have a reaction that would send them to the hospital. Trying to find just snacks for him to bring was nearly impossible, even things manufactured in a plant that may have been exposed to the dust were out, which is about everything shy of just plain old raw fruits and vegetables. Even those we had to be sure weren't stored next to anything that could have been a trigger food. Just forget trying to ever send him cold lunch from home....oy. The last two school years we've pretty much had to become peanut free in our own home just to keep them safe there.

I was sympathetic to the child but it was incredibly frustrating for our family.

If I were a parent of such a child I'd likely acquire a nanny for them to be sure the environment was kept safe and controlled as opposed to leaving such a potentially fatal affliction in the hands of someone who has far too many children to be worrying about if a speck of peanut or tree nut dust is floating through the air.

It's just too much to ask imho, and surely not one of those things one would or should ever just drop in a providers lap on the day care is to begin.
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WImom 10:48 AM 08-24-2012
The parents should have a practice epi that you could borrow to practice. I have two DCK's with nut allergies here.
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momma2girls 10:51 AM 08-24-2012
Originally Posted by Willow:
That's bologna.

I don't think any mother with half a brain would merely "forget" a detail like that.


It reads intentional, and that wouldn't fly with me. I'd have sent them on their way the moment she finally chose to disclose it.



My son has had kids in his class with peanut allergies. My son couldn't even have peanut butter toast in the morning for breakfast because even arriving an hour later if they caught wind of his breath they'd have a reaction that would send them to the hospital. Trying to find just snacks for him to bring was nearly impossible, even things manufactured in a plant that may have been exposed to the dust were out, which is about everything shy of just plain old raw fruits and vegetables. Even those we had to be sure weren't stored next to anything that could have been a trigger food. Just forget trying to ever send him cold lunch from home....oy. The last two school years we've pretty much had to become peanut free in our own home just to keep them safe there.

I was sympathetic to the child but it was incredibly frustrating for our family.

If I were a parent of such a child I'd likely acquire a nanny for them to be sure the environment was kept safe and controlled as opposed to leaving such a potentially fatal affliction in the hands of someone who has far too many children to be worrying about if a speck of peanut or tree nut dust is floating through the air.

It's just too much to ask imho, and surely not one of those things one would or should ever just drop in a providers lap on the day care is to begin.
I agree totally on this one!!
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momofsix 10:51 AM 08-24-2012
Originally Posted by cheerfuldom:
I accepted a child into care and mom did not tell me until their first day that they have a peanut allergy and also an epi pen! Not happy about this.

We discussed the issue and kid is seeing an allergist and has had peanuts recently without an allergy issue. Mom says they have never used the pen and have not had any allergy issues/hives/etc for over a year (kid is 3) but that the doctor insists that they have an epi pen just in case. I have told mom that I do not guarantee a peanut free home and that I do not have any experience with epi pens.

Kid is not scheduled to come on a permanent basis for another week and half (finishing out the time in the current childcare arrangement).

What would you do?
It sounds like mom is working with an allergist, they are allowing him to be exposed to nuts, he hasn't reacted when exposed for at least a year. The epi-pen is really there for a "just in case". To me that's not a big deal. (it sounds like it's not a big deal to mom or the allergist) She can bring in their "practice" pen for you to show you how to do it...it's very simple to do.
I've had 3 kids in the last 5 years with nut allergies. They are not the type that can't even have it in their environment or they become deathly ill. They just get itchy throats and eyes, maybe a rash. I avoided nut products for all daycare meals and snacks just because it was easiest and it wasn't hard at all. I still read the labels before I buy things because sometimes a company will change things-but generally once you've got your menu down you're good. (I still have peanut butter etc. for my own family and it has never been a problem. )
Serious allergy...I would really be concerned, but this sounds like it was mild and he's growing out of it.
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cheerfuldom 11:01 AM 08-24-2012
Originally Posted by momofsix:
It sounds like mom is working with an allergist, they are allowing him to be exposed to nuts, he hasn't reacted when exposed for at least a year. The epi-pen is really there for a "just in case". To me that's not a big deal. (it sounds like it's not a big deal to mom or the allergist) She can bring in their "practice" pen for you to show you how to do it...it's very simple to do.
I've had 3 kids in the last 5 years with nut allergies. They are not the type that can't even have it in their environment or they become deathly ill. They just get itchy throats and eyes, maybe a rash. I avoided nut products for all daycare meals and snacks just because it was easiest and it wasn't hard at all. I still read the labels before I buy things because sometimes a company will change things-but generally once you've got your menu down you're good. (I still have peanut butter etc. for my own family and it has never been a problem. )
Serious allergy...I would really be concerned, but this sounds like it was mild and he's growing out of it.
yes I think this is more the case. Mom was not worried at all about my peanut plentiful house....did not ask or demand that we go peanut free. Said there have been no reactions for a solid year even when given peanut item and they have never used the pen. to me it sounds like an alarmist ped from something that happened a long time ago....but mom does have a checkup appt. already with the allergist. She knows that I am not making any special accommodation for this child and do not have any medical training outside of basic first aid. I have not had any other issues with this family regarding the interview or first day so I guess maybe I am naive but I am not seeing this as a red flag.....

but you all have given lots of feedback which I will surely be thinking over. I do know that I absolutely would not take a child with any severe allergy into care but I dont think that is the case here. The only other possibility is that mom is the best liar ever and willing to put her child in dangers way in order to get her into daycare....
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Unregistered 11:09 AM 08-24-2012
Originally Posted by cheerfuldom:
I have already told mom that I will not be altering anything here in order to accommodate a peanut allergy, that is something that does not work for my program and is too much of a liability for me to promise that. I have 5 daycare kids total plus a very active household (family and friends over in the evenings and weekends) and I absolutely would never guarantee that I could keep a peanut free home. Kid eats breakfast and dinner at home, and is sent a sack lunch for daycare so mom provides food in that regard.

She said she understands that and considering the past year (no allergic reactions even when big sibling gave kid peanuts on accident), she is fine with the arrangement in my household.

I will have her sign a medical permission form/release regarding the epi pen use in case of emergency.

anything else I am missing?
You should term.

Despite you attempting to cover your liability bases you still have no education on caring for an allergic child.

Children die fom lack of education and training all the time.

If a child is in your care and you can't care for them properly in an emergency then you have no buisness caring for them at all.

Not your fault but stay with what you know or get educated.

Shame on mom for putting such a serious issue on you.
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Childminder 11:38 AM 08-24-2012
I was told that unless the parent has paid to have me trained in the use of an EPI pen then do not use them. I guess that they have to be administered at just the right time and they expire quickly so you have to watch that too. We were told to call 911.
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MrsSteinel'sHouse 06:04 PM 08-24-2012
I haven't read all of the other posts but here is my 2 cents.

I have had various allergies and a kidlet with no peanut butter and epi pens.

You need to know how far you are from the hospital. In my case, I am at best 20 minutes and an ambulance maybe at least 10 (small village, volunteer) and maybe no pediatric emt available. So I have to have at least 2 epi pens because you may have to readminister in 15 minutes.

Something else to consider.
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saved4always 07:09 PM 08-24-2012
I never had a dck with an allergy that required an epi-pen but my daughter has one for a peanut allergy. We have known she was allergic to peanuts since she was about 2 years old and she is 10 yo now. We have had epi-pens for years for her but have never used one. She did take a bite of a peanut butter cookie a few years ago at church and we ended up taking her to the ER because we were not positve whether we should do the epi-pen or not. Honestly, our pediatrician prescribed it without ever really discussing with us how and when to use it. We gave her benedril which, of cours, did not work. At the ER, they administered the epinephrine and she was fine after a very short time. Befoire the epinephrine, she had hives, vomiting, swollen lips, runny nose, trouble breathing, etc. The ER doctor told us that we should give her the epi-pen even if we just suspected that she consumed peanuts...that it would not hurt her if we were mistaken. We do give 2 epi-pens to the school and 2 to summer camp (daycare) as well as having 2 at our home now. We have 2 just in case the first does not stop the symptoms. Our pediatrician said we should take her to the ER (or school should call EMS) even if we use the epi-pen. Just to be sure she is okay.

Administering an epi-pen is not really very difficult. The epi-pen should include a practice syringe and the parents should show you how to use it. You basically just jab it into the child's thigh. If this child has consumed peanuts and not had a reaction, I would suspect that he is not (and never has been) allergic to peanuts. My understanding (and experience with my daughter has been like this) that a peanut allergy gets worse with each comsumption, not better. My daughters first reaction was mild hives that disappeared on thier own. I did not know til the next day that my neighbor had given her a peanut butter cracker when she watched her for me...she had never had peanuts before. The next time was that time at church and it was definitely MUCH worse than that first. It is definitely not something that I would "forget" to mention to a caregiver. I always note it in all caps and written big on any form asking for allergies or medical info. It is not something I take a chance with.
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saved4always 07:16 PM 08-24-2012
Originally Posted by itlw8:
also it is my understanding if an epi pen is used the next step is call the amblance. so you need permission to do so and a statement saying the parents will pay for it The epi pen only gets you until you can get medical care.
This is what my pediatrician said...that my daughter is to go to the ER when the epi-pen is administered. Her daycare this summer required that we bring 2 epi-pens in case the first does not work and in case the ambulance is not there quickly enough.
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jojosmommy 08:47 PM 08-24-2012
I think lots of people are being far too harsh on the mother.

I think you need to consider that this allergy is like any other medical issue and varies depending on the individual child, and their health.

I also think you consider the fact that no parent in the world would intentionally forget to tell you something they thought would help their child, especially in a life or death situation. They took the time to interview you and didn't just open your door and shove the kid in so they obviously took concern in who would be watching their child and how your program is run.

Allergies are something that some children grow out of. Some children also get worse after repeated exposures. The reactions are vastly different for every kid and can be mild to severe. I also disagree with the idea that simply because a doctor gave an epipen that means it is a severe allergy. I have met many un/under qualified doctors who have simply writen a RX to cover their bases. Without any background on how to use it, when to use it, etc. Just being given one by a doctor doesnt mean the kid even needed it.

My child has tons of allergies (soy, rice, dairy, chicken, beef, corn, peaches, sweet potato, peas, carrots, pumpkin, kiwi,.... I could continue but I'll save you the trouble). Her reactions are different depending on the number of exposures, the amount ingested, and vary from food to food. She has also already aged out of some of the allergies she has and she is only 10 months old. The point of sharing this is that the mom probably doesnt think about the peanut allergy at every moment since the child has not had a reaction for over a year and even then you said they werent severe.

If you think you are getting enough support from the mom to care for the child safely then do so. Require she leave an epipen there at all times so nobody accidentally forgets at drop off to leave you with one. Ask about safe foods and this childs indicators of an allergy. Take a class on how to use an epipen safely. Call 911 if you have any concerns with the child at any time.
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saved4always 05:53 AM 08-25-2012
Originally Posted by jojosmommy:
I think lots of people are being far too harsh on the mother.

I think you need to consider that this allergy is like any other medical issue and varies depending on the individual child, and their health.

I also think you consider the fact that no parent in the world would intentionally forget to tell you something they thought would help their child, especially in a life or death situation. They took the time to interview you and didn't just open your door and shove the kid in so they obviously took concern in who would be watching their child and how your program is run.

Allergies are something that some children grow out of. Some children also get worse after repeated exposures. The reactions are vastly different for every kid and can be mild to severe. I also disagree with the idea that simply because a doctor gave an epipen that means it is a severe allergy. I have met many un/under qualified doctors who have simply writen a RX to cover their bases. Without any background on how to use it, when to use it, etc. Just being given one by a doctor doesnt mean the kid even needed it.

My child has tons of allergies (soy, rice, dairy, chicken, beef, corn, peaches, sweet potato, peas, carrots, pumpkin, kiwi,.... I could continue but I'll save you the trouble). Her reactions are different depending on the number of exposures, the amount ingested, and vary from food to food. She has also already aged out of some of the allergies she has and she is only 10 months old. The point of sharing this is that the mom probably doesnt think about the peanut allergy at every moment since the child has not had a reaction for over a year and even then you said they werent severe.

If you think you are getting enough support from the mom to care for the child safely then do so. Require she leave an epipen there at all times so nobody accidentally forgets at drop off to leave you with one. Ask about safe foods and this childs indicators of an allergy. Take a class on how to use an epipen safely. Call 911 if you have any concerns with the child at any time.
It is so true that each child reacts differently to their allergy to a food. In my daughter's case, she can be around people eating peanuts. She can eat things made in facilities that also process food that has peanuts in it. She only reacts to actually ingesting something with the ingredients peanuts or peanut butter. She has never been tested for the allergy but we know from the one bad reaction she had that she is definitely allergic. That is why I am wondering if the child in the original post even has a peanut allergy. If he really ate a peanut ingredient and did not react, I would not think he was allergic. That is probably why the mom is not worried. I would still want the epi-pen at my house for a child like that...just in case. I would take this child and not worry too much about the allergy. I already never served peanuts or peanut butter to any of my dck's just because I did not want to be the one to "discover" an allergy the hard way.
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e.j. 03:58 PM 08-25-2012
Originally Posted by jojosmommy:
I think lots of people are being far too harsh on the mother........I think you need to consider that this allergy is like any other medical issue and varies depending on the individual child, and their health.
Not having met the mother, I was thinking the same thing. I was at my kids' allergist during one of their appointments and he asked if either my husband or I had allergies. I said no initially but then realized, my husband is allergic to bee stings and I have mold and pollen allergies. I felt a little ridiculous because who forgets they have allergies? I did, though because in my case, they're usually mild and only bother me at certain times during the year. My husband rarely gets stung so that didn't cross my mind either. Both of my kids have allergies to certain foods and they have EpiPens "just in case" but because we stay away from the foods they are allergic to, I could see myself forgetting to let a day care provider know during an initial interview.

Personally, I'd give her the benefit of the doubt. If she were willing to work with me and get me the paperwork I needed from the dr. detailing the allergy, reaction to look for and action to take if exposed, I would keep her as a client. If she blew off my concerns and refused to provide the information I needed, I would drop her.
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Blue sky 01:36 AM 12-16-2015
Originally Posted by DaisyMamma:
Are you required to be med. certified to administer the epi?
My state requires this. I got certified once and never renewed because I didn't want the liability.
which state are you in? I have heard that CA is now require to choose if you provide the "incidental medical services" or not. if you choose to do so, then you have to submit "a PLAN to provide the incidental medical service"
here is the quote from CA site
"when the parent/authorized representative has provided written
authorization and obtained written instructions from the child’s physician. The licensee must
submit a Plan to Provide Incidental Medical Services. " there for you may tell the parent that you do not serve that type of service I think.
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lblanke 04:02 AM 12-16-2015
Neither Benadryl nor inhalers will stop anaphylaxis, and some doctors have taken Benadryl off the plan for treatment of a known exposure. You cannot make the family pay for training. It has to be spread out to all children in your care. It is a big responsibility, and if you are unwilling or unable to provide a safe environment, do not keep the child. Kids with food allergies can safely attend preschool, daycare and school with accommodations and do not require a nanny or to be home schooled. Fortunately allergic reactions are rare if everyone is careful, but they can be serious, so it is important to know what to do if one should occur. FARE.org has great factual information on life threatening allergies.
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Blackcat31 05:27 AM 12-16-2015
Originally Posted by Blue sky:
which state are you in? I have heard that CA is now require to choose if you provide the "incidental medical services" or not. if you choose to do so, then you have to submit "a PLAN to provide the incidental medical service"
here is the quote from CA site
"when the parent/authorized representative has provided written
authorization and obtained written instructions from the child’s physician. The licensee must
submit a Plan to Provide Incidental Medical Services. " there for you may tell the parent that you do not serve that type of service I think.
The post you quoted is from 2012.

I don't think the poster is still an active member here.
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Kimskiddos 06:48 AM 12-16-2015
Originally Posted by cheerfuldom:
I accepted a child into care and mom did not tell me until their first day that they have a peanut allergy and also an epi pen! Not happy about this.

We discussed the issue and kid is seeing an allergist and has had peanuts recently without an allergy issue. Mom says they have never used the pen and have not had any allergy issues/hives/etc for over a year (kid is 3) but that the doctor insists that they have an epi pen just in case. I have told mom that I do not guarantee a peanut free home and that I do not have any experience with epi pens.

Kid is not scheduled to come on a permanent basis for another week and half (finishing out the time in the current childcare arrangement).

What would you do?
I had this same kiddo, she is now in school. Honestly it wasn't a big deal at all for us! Her mom replaced the epi pen about every 6 months.

She was receiving peanut therapy (Dr. would give her small doses and check for reactions.) Her allergy wasn't severe and all I had to do was omit the peanut butter and nuts (not that I ever really served nuts), cut out the cranola bars, read labels a little more carefully and let other parents know that I had a child with nut allergies when they brought holiday/birthday treats (they were very accommodating). With the added bonus of getting a lot more fruit treats because that was easier for them to supply. If I wasn't sure about something she just didn't get it.
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Blue sky 07:18 AM 12-16-2015
Oh, Sorry about that. I will check next time.
thanks
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Unregistered 07:31 AM 12-16-2015
Originally Posted by Willow:
That's bologna.

I don't think any mother with half a brain would merely "forget" a detail like that.


It reads intentional, and that wouldn't fly with me. I'd have sent them on their way the moment she finally chose to disclose it.



My son has had kids in his class with peanut allergies. My son couldn't even have peanut butter toast in the morning for breakfast because even arriving an hour later if they caught wind of his breath they'd have a reaction that would send them to the hospital. Trying to find just snacks for him to bring was nearly impossible, even things manufactured in a plant that may have been exposed to the dust were out, which is about everything shy of just plain old raw fruits and vegetables. Even those we had to be sure weren't stored next to anything that could have been a trigger food. Just forget trying to ever send him cold lunch from home....oy. The last two school years we've pretty much had to become peanut free in our own home just to keep them safe there.

I was sympathetic to the child but it was incredibly frustrating for our family.

If I were a parent of such a child I'd likely acquire a nanny for them to be sure the environment was kept safe and controlled as opposed to leaving such a potentially fatal affliction in the hands of someone who has far too many children to be worrying about if a speck of peanut or tree nut dust is floating through the air.

It's just too much to ask imho, and surely not one of those things one would or should ever just drop in a providers lap on the day care is to begin.
This is probably a hugely unpopular opinion, but if the kid is this bad then he or she needs to be home-schooled. A peanut free school or daycare environment is one thing, but dictating what another family eats in their own home is way out of line. And as a daycare provider there's no way I could enforce this or protect the kid from this.
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Blackcat31 07:34 AM 12-16-2015
Originally Posted by Blue sky:
Oh, Sorry about that. I will check next time.
thanks
That's okay... old threads are always full of good info but I just wanted to point it out to you that it was old just because I didnt want you to wait for a reply from that poster.
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DaveA 11:53 AM 12-16-2015
If I have a child with an epi pen I require a contract addendum detailing allergy, reactions, when to use, and post-use parental notification and medical treatment. I have parents provide 2 epi pens- 1 each for house and car first aid kits.
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