Getting ready to go to camp

• Going to camp can be lots of fun.
  
  
• Whether traveling far away or staying close to home, going camping takes time to plan. Asthma should be part of that planning.
  
  
• Be sure asthma is under good control before going to camp.
  
  

• No coughing at night or with physical activity.
  
  
• Using reliever medicine no more than 3 times per week for asthma symptoms.
  
  
• No unplanned doctor or emergency visits for asthma.
  
  

• Even if you think your child’s asthma is under control, book an appointment with your child’s doctor to have a pre-camp check up.
  
  
• Bring your child’s Asthma Action Plan, medicines and your questions.
  
  
• At the appointment your child’s doctor should:
  1. answer your questions
  2. assess your child’s asthma control
  3. review and update your child’s Asthma Action Plan
  4. review and refill your child’s asthma medicines

• An up-to-date copy of your child’s Asthma Action Plan.
  
  
• Your child’s asthma medicines and devices such as spacers and peak flow meter.
  
  
• A written list of your child’s asthma triggers and medicine.
  
  
• Extra asthma medicines in case of loss.
  
  

• Be sure the camp has medical staff available. Most camps have a nurse.
  
  
• Ask about the camp rules for asthma medicines. Be sure your child can keep their Reliever medicine with them at all times.
  
  
• Find out what triggers your child may be exposed to while at camp. Be sure the camp staff is aware of your child’s triggers and can take steps to avoid them.
  
  
• Review the purpose and correct use of the Asthma Action Plan with the camp nurse and your child’s counselor.
  
  
• Be sure the camp nurse and your child’s counselor know how to use the asthma medicine.
  
  
• Be sure the camp has an emergency contact person and your child’s doctor’s information.