Administrator/Owner: Asthma Management in Early Child Care

Childhood asthma rates are growing most rapidly for pre-school aged children. Children with asthma have special needs. Care givers and families must communicate these special needs so children with asthma can live healthy, active lives.

There are many steps administrators/owners can take to be sure children with asthma are in a safe and healthy atmosphere.

General Education

• At initial registration, identify if children have asthma.

• Require a copy of the physician’s prescribed Asthma Action Plan from the families of each child with asthma at initial registration. The Asthma Action Plan should include the child’s asthma triggers, medication, emergency contact information and procedures to follow in the event of an asthma attack.

• Designate a person to handle and maintain Asthma Action Plans and medications. Be sure care givers have access to Asthma Action Plans and understand how to read the plans. Provide asthma education for all caregivers on an annual basis.

• Provide families with information about asthma and how to reduce triggers at home. Start with: Asthma 101 and Top 10 Ways to Reduce Asthma Triggers at Home.

Sanitation and Strong Odor Control

• Designate a person to handle pesticide issues and track indoor air quality complaints.

• Regularly inspect the faculty for cleanliness- dusted, vacuumed, trash removed daily, etc.

• Be selective when accepting donations like old furniture. Always clean used furniture thoroughly.

• Prohibit the use of perfumes, air fresheners, candles and cleaning products/pesticides.

Pest Control

• Use the Indiana Pesticide Review Board’s suggested Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program, especially their Model Pest Control Policy for Indiana Child Care Facilities.

• Review Indiana Family Social Services Administration’s pest control policy 470 IAC 3-4.7-118 Pest prevention.

• Be sure maintenance personnel or contract cleaners are aware of health and safety policies such as an IPM program.

• When using a pest control contractor, be sure the facility’s pest control policies are adhered to. Refer to Purdue University’s IPM Technical Resource Center for guidance on Working with a Pest Control Service in an IPM Program.

Ventilation and Mold Control

• Inspect the faculty for signs of excess moisture such as condensation on the windows or water stained ceiling tiles.

• Maintain humidity levels between 40 and 60 percent.

• Check for plumbing and roof leaks.

• Be sure the ventilation system is clean and working properly.

Repairs and Renovations

• Schedule pollutant and dust producing renovation activities when the facility is vacant, such as on weekends or vacation periods.

• Separate children and staff from renovation areas where dust and fumes are produced. Use exhaust fans to remove odors and dust.

• Refrain from installing carpet. Carpet is difficult to maintain and keep clean. Carpet can host dust mites, mold and pests when not maintained.

• Be sure there is proper ventilation during all renovation projects. Block returns from work areas to minimize dust and odors traveling to other areas of the building. Do not run generators near windows that open and close or ventilation air intakes.

• All contracts should contain language that maintains good indoor air quality.