School Nurse: Sara Miller
Health Para: Blanca Mireles
Medications at School
Administering Medications
School staff can give medication to a student only if a parent or guardian requests it. This is important when the student needs medication during the school day or at school events. Parents must fill out and sign the Permission to Give Medication at School Form for each student, medication, and dosage. A new form is required if there is a change in medication or dosage, and a new label must also be provided. At the start of each school year, a new form must be signed if the student continues to take medication. Medications that are not approved by the FDA will not be given at school.
Prescription Medications
For prescription medications, a medical order is needed. Parents must fill out and sign the Permission to Give Medication at School Form for each student, medication, and dosage. Parents or guardians must supply the medication in its original container from the pharmacy, which must have a label that includes the student’s name, medication name, dosage based on weight or age, how often to take it, and the method of administration (like by mouth or injection).
Over-the-Counter Medications
Some over-the-counter medications, like Ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin) or Acetaminophen (Tylenol), may be available in the health clinic for students who don’t use them often. Other over-the-counter medications provided by parents must be in the original labeled container with the student’s name. and a signed medical order. Asprin will not be given due to the risk of Reye's Syndrome and can be dangerous for children.
Emergency Medications
Students can carry emergency medications, such as inhalers and epinephrine, if they follow these steps: (1) get written permission from a parent, (2) get written permission from a doctor, and (3) sign a contract with the parent and school nurse. This contract shows that the student understands how to use the medication and can do it safely. If a student misuses the medication, their privileges will be taken away, and their parent will be informed.
Transporting Medications to School
Parents or guardians should bring medications to school and give them directly to the health office staff member. The medication and written orders must be brought in together and will be verified by the health office staff member. If this is not possible, the parent must call the school to inform them. The school staff will make sure the medication is taken to the health office. Controlled medications will require the staff member and parent to double count the medication and sign paperwork indicating the agreed-upon count.
If medications are brought to school without proper authorization, they will be kept in the health office and sent home at the end of the day. Medications will not be accepted with out written orders.
Disposing of Unused Medications
Parents should pick up any unused medications from the school when they are no longer needed, at the end of the school year, or if the student transfers to another school. The school nurse will dispose of any medications left behind.