School Teachers' Knowledge and Attitudes Related to Anaphylactic Reactions: A Cross-Sectional Study

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction marked by a sudden onset of symptoms affecting multiple bodily systems, and if not addressed promptly, it can lead to fatal outcomes. The primary clinical manifestations often involve skin rash, respiratory distress, and cardiovascular symptoms. Identifying these signs early is crucial for timely intervention, including the administration of epinephrine, aiming to prevent loss of life. This study aims to assess the awareness of symptoms and management of anaphylactic reactions among teachers in Jeddah/Makkah, Saudi Arabia.

This cross-sectional study included 742 teachers from both governmental and private schools in Jeddah/Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Only those schools who agreed and facilitated the process of distributing the questionnaire were included in which an electronic structured questionnaire was utilized and distributed among participants. Statistical analysis was done using JMP Pro 15 software (JMP Statistical Discovery LLC, Cary, NC).

Most participants (n = 501, 67.5%) were female, and 374 (50.4%) were between 40 and 50 years old. Most participants believed that skin and eye manifestations were the most common clinical presentation. When inquired about anaphylaxis treatment, the majority of teachers (57%) opted for antihistamines as the preferred emergency treatment. Surprisingly, 407 of the 742 (54.9%) participants have never heard of epinephrine injections.

This study concluded that the knowledge of anaphylactic reactions among teachers in Saudi Arabia is limited. Therefore, educational campaigns and programs about anaphylaxis and the management of allergic reactions are recommended to elevate awareness within the teaching community, contributing to a more informed and prepared educational environment.