CF at School
CF affects children in different ways and it is important to remember that each child's health can change considerably from day to day.
There are some symptoms which may be particularly relevant at school, the most noticeable feature of CF is a persistent cough. Although it is not infectious it may be embarrassing in front of other children, especially as a severe coughing attack occasionally leads to coughing up mucus or vomiting.
Parents or other carers may have to come into school to help their child with daily physiotherapy. Nebuliser treatment may also be necessary.
The number of physiotherapy sessions that take place each day varies according to the child's current state of health. The length of each session will vary from 15 minutes to an hour.
As CF causes malfunctioning of the pancreas, special supplements need to be taken with all meals and snacks. These are available in capsule form and need to be taken in large quantities.
Education
Children with CF are as academically able as their peers, so teachers should expect similar standards. But hospitalisation or chest infections can result in prolonged absence from school, so extra help may be needed to catch up with the rest of the class. Examining boards make certain allowances for pupils with CF.
Some older children take advantage of portable intravenous antibiotic equipment, which enables them to attend lessons more regularly.
Physical exercise is beneficial for children with CF so they should participate in games and PE lessons. However, illness can result in loss of energy, which should be taken into consideration.
Social and psychological aspects of CF
Children with CF may be teased or picked on at school because of their persistent cough, and the fact that they may be underweight and small for their age. Taking tablets and capsules with their meals may also be embarrassing for them.
Physiotherapy is very time consuming, possibly to the detriment of the child's social life. However, children with CF usually find supportive friends who help with care and physiotherapy.
During teenage years there is the possibility that physiotherapy and diet could be neglected. Delayed sexual maturity may cause anxiety or insecurity.
Teenagers may require sympathetic treatment and counselling to deal with some of these issues.
Cystic Fibrosis requires a degree of special involvement from teachers. This could include consultations with parents or even practical help.
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