Access to epinephrine in schools authorized

10 February 2012

Following the death of a Chesterfield elementary school child from anaphylaxis after she ate a peanut on the playground, the General Assembly will require all local school boards to adopt and implement policies for the possession and administration of epinephrine in every school. Under the policies, the epinephrine would be administered by a school nurse, a school board employee or a volunteer who is authorized and trained in the administration of epinephrine to any student believed to be having an anaphylactic reaction.

The Medical Society of Virginia (MSV) and the American Academy of Pediatrics-VA Chapter worked closely with the bill patrons, Del. Tag Greason (R-32nd, Loudoun), Del. Peter Farrell (R-56th, Henrico), Sen. Don McEachin (D-9th, Richmond) and Del. John O'Bannon, M.D. (R-73rd, Henrico), on the bills. HB 1107 and SB 656 have both been reported favorably from committees and head to the floor of the House and Senate for votes.

The bills include provisions stipulating that individuals who provide, administer or assist in the administration of epinephrine to a student believed in good faith to be having an anaphylactic reaction, or the individual who is the prescriber of the epinephrine, shall not be liable for any civil damages for ordinary negligence in acts or omissions resulting from the rendering of such treatment.

MSV appreciates the efforts of the bill sponsors to address the concerns of the physician community while still accomplishing the main purpose of increasing safety for children.