CHAPTER 5:
MEDICATION
ADMINISTRATION IN SCHOOLS
MEDICATION
ADMINISTRATION
IN
SCHOOLS
TABLE
OF
CONTENTS
PART
A:
INTRODUCTION,
LEGISLATIVE
AUTHORITY
AND
POLICY
...
4
PART
B:
GENERAL
MEDICATION
PROCEDURES
AND
INFORMATION
...
7
Delivery of Medication to School ... 8
Medication Storage Guidelines ... 9
Six Rights of Medication Administration... 10
Routine Counting of Medications ... 11
Medication Errors ... 12
Discontinued Medications ... 13
End of the School Year Procedures ... 14
Medication Disposal ... 15
PART
C:
PRESCRIPTION
MEDICATIONS
...
16
Administration of Prescription Medication Card (blue card)... 17
Prescription Medication Guidelines ... 18
Documentation ... 20
PART
D:
OVER
THE
COUNTER
MEDICATIONS
...
21
Administration of Over the Counter Medication Card (orange card) ... 22
Over the Counter Medication Guidelines ... 23
Documentation ... 25
PART
E:
SELF
‐
ADMINISTERED
MEDICATIONS
...
26
Introduction ... 27
Metered Dose Inhaler ... 27
Epinephrine auto‐injector (EPI‐PEN) ... 28
Insulin and diabetic equipment ... 28
PART
F:
FIELD
TRIP
PROCEDURES
...
30
Introduction ... 31
Single Day Field Trip ... 32
Extended Day/Multi‐Day Field Trip ... 33
PART
G:
MEDICATION
ADMINISTRATION
TECHNIQUES
...
355
General Guidelines ... 366
Oral Medication (tablets and capsules) ... 377
Oral Medication (liquid) ... 388
Metered Dose Inhaler ... 39
Nebulized Medication ... 411
Eye Medication ... 422
Nasal Medication ... 433
Ear Medication ... 444
Topical Medication ... 455
Medications via Gastrostomy Tube ... 466
Rectal Medication (suppository) ... 477
PART
H:
EMERGENCY
MEDICATIONS
...
488
Anaphylaxis ... 49
How to Use an EpiPen ... 500
Diastat (Diazepam rectal gel) ... 544
Glucagon ... 556
References
...
588
PART
A:
INTRODUCTION,
LEGISLATIVE
AUTHORITY
AND
POLICY
Introduction
Some children are able to access a free and public education only because of the effectiveness
of medications used to treat illness or disability. In this respect, medication administration at
school is considered a supportive service for students. Parents are encouraged to develop a
schedule minimizing or eliminating the administration of medications at school. Medication
administration during school hours will occur only when a medication schedule cannot be
adjusted to provide for administration at home, and is done for the best interest of the child or
on an emergency basis. Unlicensed school personnel, who are both authorized by the principal
and trained by the school nurse, may assist students in taking prescribed medications during
school hours as per Florida Statute 1006.062 and PCSB policy 5330 – Use of Medications.
1006.062 Administration of medication and provision of medical services by district school board
personnel.‐
(1) Notwithstanding the provision of the Nurse Practice Act, part I of chapter 464, district school board
personnel may assist students in the administration of prescription medication when the following conditions have
been met:
(a) Each district school board shall include in its approved school health services plan a procedure to
provide training, by a registered nurse, a licensed practical nurse, a physician licensed pursuant to chapter 458 or
chapter 459, or a physician assistant licensed pursuant to chapter 458 or chapter 459, to the school personnel
designated by the school principal to assist students in the administration of prescribed medication. Such training
may be provided in collaboration with other school districts, through contract with an education consortium, or by
any other arrangement consistent with the intent of this subsection.
(b) Each district school board shall adopt policies and procedures governing the administration of
prescription medication by district school board personnel. The policies and procedures shall include, but not be
limited to, the following provisions:
1. For each prescribed medication, the student’s parent shall provide to the school principal a written
statement which grants to the school principal or the principal’s designee permission to assist in the administration
of such medication and which explains the necessity for the medication to be provided during the school day,
including any occasion when the student is away from school property on official school business. The school
principal or the principal’s trained designee shall assist the student in the administration of the medication. 2. Each prescribed medication to be administered by district school board personnel shall be received,
counted, and stored in its original container. When the medication is not in use, it shall be stored in its original
container in a secure fashion under lock and key in a location designated by the school principal.
(2) There shall be no liability for civil damages as a result of the administration of the medication when
the person administering the medication acts as an ordinarily reasonable prudent person would have acted under
the same or similar circumstances.
5530 – Use of Medications
The School Board shall not be responsible for the diagnosis and treatment of student illness. The
administration of prescribed medication and/or medically‐prescribed treatments to a student during school hours
will be permitted only if failure to do so would jeopardize the health of the student, the student would not be able
to attend school if the medication or treatment were not made available during school hours, or if the child is
disabled and requires medication to benefit from his/her educational program.
For purposes of this policy, “medication” shall include all medicines including those prescribed by a
physician/health care provider and any over‐the‐counter drugs, herbal preparations, and/or remedies.
“Treatment” refers both to the manner in which a medication is administered and to health‐care procedures which
require special training, such as catheterization.
Before any medication or treatment may be administered to any student during school hours, the Board
shall require the written prescription from the child’s physician/health care provider accompanied by the written
authorization of the parent. This document shall be kept on file at the school site, and made available to the
persons designated by this policy as authorized to administer medication or treatment. School personnel
designated by the principal as being responsible for administration of medication shall participate in a scheduled
training program provided by the school nurse. No student is allowed to provide or sell any type of over‐the‐
counter medication to another student. Violations of this rule will be considered a violation of the Code of Student
Conduct.
The principal is responsible for designating 3 school personnel (separate from the school nurse
and/or Certified Nursing Assistant) who will be responsible for administering medications in the
school. These designated people will not administer medication until after they have
successfully completed medication administration training. The Registered Nurse can refuse to
delegate any medical task if he or she deems that the designated personnel are not competent
to perform the task.
It is the responsibility of the designated personnel to assure that prescribed medications are
administered. If a student who normally receives medication at school fails to come to the
health room at the scheduled time, the person responsible for medication administration
should make every effort to locate the student within a 1 hour time frame.
PART
B:
GENERAL
MEDICATION
PROCEDURES
AND
INFORMATION
Delivery
of
Medication
to
School
• NO STUDENT SHALL TRANSPORT MEDICATION TO OR FROM SCHOOL. The exception
to this is for students who have a completed self‐carry authorization form (for EpiPen,
insulin, inhaler or pancreatic enzymes) on file at the school.
• Medications are not to be transported on a school bus or placed in the student’s
backpack for transport.
• Parents, or their designee, are required to hand‐deliver all medication to the school in
order to complete all required paperwork and verify the amount of medication
delivered. School personnel will not administer any medication until the completed and
signed form is received at the school.
• Parent should arrange for a separate supply of medication for school use. These
medications must be in their original labeled container provided by the pharmacy or
manufacturer.
• Medication should not be transported between home and school on a daily basis, unless
the parent daily drops the medication off and signs it in to school and daily picks the
medication up and signs it out of school.
• Upon delivery at school, all medication must be counted by a school staff member
trained to administer medication. Counting should take place in the presence of the
adult who delivered the medication to school. The total should then be documented on
the Administration of Medication card and signed by both staff member and parent.
• If a dose involves a half‐tablet, each half‐tablet will be counted. If the dose involves 1 ½
tablets, the parent will need to bring in two bottles: one with full tablets and another
with half‐tablets. Each bottle will then be counted separately and the medication cards
stapled together.
Medication
Storage
Guidelines
Schools have a duty to provide safe and appropriate storage of all medications ordered by a
health care provider and entrusted to the school’s care. All medications must be kept in the
original labeled container provided by the pharmacy or manufacturer. Prescription labels must
include the student’s name, name of the medication, the dosage directions, the specific time of
administration, date of prescription (must be within one calendar year), the ordering
physician’s name, pharmacy name and pharmacy telephone number.
ROUTINE DAILY OR OVER‐THE‐COUNTER MEDICATIONS:
• Should be stored in a locked drawer or cabinet in a secure area in the clinic or
administrative area.
• Should be kept cool and dry.
CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES (INCLUDING MEDICATIONS FOR ADHD):
• Require special attention and storage.
• Should be kept under two separate locks and keys, per FDA guidelines and national
standards requirements.
REFRIGERATED MEDICATIONS (SOME ELIXIRS, INSULIN VIALS):
• Should be kept in a locked box in a refrigerator. The refrigerator should be in a secure
area with minimal access. They should not be kept in the refrigerator door.
• Should not be kept in the same refrigerator as food.
• Should maintain a consistent temperature of 36 ‐ 46°F.
EMERGENCY MEDICATIONS (EPI‐PEN, GLUCAGON, DIASTAT):
• Must be accessible immediately in case of an emergency. ONLY these medications will
leave the building in the event of an emergency.
• Should be kept in the clinic. It is not recommended to keep emergency medications in
the classroom.
• May be kept in a secure but unlocked location during the day, but must be locked up
after school hours. If stored this way, there should be a sign on the outside of the
medication cabinet indicating where the emergency medications are located.
Six
Rights
of
Medication
Administration
*** Always compare the pharmacy label with the Administration of Medication card ***
1. Right Student: Be sure you are giving medication to the correct student.
• Ask the student to state his/her name. Do not prompt.
• Look at the student’s picture on the Administration of Medication card, if available.
• Check with another staff member if you are unsure that the student is who they say.
2. Right Medication: Be sure you give the correct drug.
3. Right Dose: Be sure that the strength and amount (dosage) are correct.
4. Right Time: Be sure the drug is given at the correct time.
5. Right Route: Be sure the correct way of administering the drug is used.
6. Right Documentation: After you have finished assisting with a medication, it is VERY
IMPORTANT that you document on the Administration of Medication card immediately.
Be sure to write on the correct card and document completely.
The Six Rights should be checked 3 times every time a medication is administered:
• When taking the medication out of the storage area.
• Before giving the medication to the student.
• When returning the medication to the storage area.
Routine
Counting
of
Medications
In the course of any given school day, multiple people can be responsible for giving multiple
medications to multiple students. In order to maintain adequate control and accountability of
all staff responsible for administering medications to students, it is essential that school
personnel maintain an accurate count of all medications dispensed. This is done not only
through thorough and complete documentation, but also through biweekly medication counts
by the assigned school nurse. Medication counts must be completed on all medications except
metered dose inhalers and any medications that students are permitted to carry on their
person.
SCHOOL PERSONNEL RESPONSIBILITIES:
• When accepting medication from a parent, medications MUST be counted in the
presence of both the parent and school staff member. Both parties must sign and date
the medication card, confirming the amount of medication delivered to school and the
current amount present. Do not use your hands to count – use a pill counter or pour
the pills into the top of the medication bottle.
• When administering a medication to a student, clearly document how much medication
was administered (i.e. 1 pill, 2 tsps.). Document how much medication then remains in
the bottle after administration.
• Count all pills, tablets or capsules after administration but before putting the medication
away to verify that the count after dispensing is correct.
• Notify the school nurse immediately of any incorrect count.
SCHOOL NURSE RESPONSIBILITIES:
• On one day every other week, complete a count verification at each assigned school.
Double check that the written count is the same as the actual count in the bottle.
• If the count is correct, somehow indicate this on the medication card by circling the
count, starring the date, etc. Be sure to keep your indicator consistent.
• If the count is not correct, double check the math on the medication card as far back as
the last verified count.
• If you are unable to find the error, complete a Medication Incident Report.
Medication
Errors
Failure to follow any of the Six Rights of Medication Administration constitutes a medication
error. This includes any missed doses for any reason except absenteeism. Medication errors
are oftentimes used to determine the need for re‐education of staff.
SCHOOL PERSONNEL RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Identify that an error occurred.
• Notify the parent, noting the day and time of notification. Give the parent a description
of what occurred.
• Notify the principal, noting the day and time of notification.
• Notify the school nurse.
• Monitor the student for any adverse effects. If the error involved the wrong student,
wrong medication, wrong dose, or wrong route, it is advisable to call the Poison Control
Center hotline at 1‐800‐222‐1222 for toxicity or expected side effects. Keep the student
under observation for possible adverse reactions. Call 911 for any severe adverse
reactions, such as difficulty breathing, tongue or facial swelling, difficulty swallowing,
vomiting, lethargy or confusion.
• Be willing to participate in periodic re‐evaluation and re‐education with the school nurse
regarding medication administration, if necessary.
SCHOOL NURSE RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Notify the student’s health care provider that the error occurred.
• Complete a Medication Incident Report.
• When the form is complete and signed by all involved, pony the completed form to the
School Health Services Coordinator. Do not keep a copy in the student’s health record.
• Complete any re‐education or training of the staff, if necessary.
Anyone can make an error, even when being careful. There are some steps to take to minimize
the possibility of a medication error.
• Take your time. Do not allow yourself to be rushed.
• Concentrate on what you are doing and avoid distractions.
• Work with one student at a time.
Discontinued
Medications
Many times, a student’s medication needs will change over the course of the school year.
Medications, dosages, times or routes may be discontinued by the student’s health care
provider. In addition, a student may withdraw from the school.
PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Notify the school that the medication for the student has been discontinued.
• It is the parent’s responsibility to pick up any unused medication within a reasonable
timeframe. No medications will be sent home with a student, regardless of age.
SCHOOL PERSONNEL RESPONSIBILITIES:
• When a parent notifies the school that a medication has been discontinued, notify the
assigned school nurse.
• Assist the parent with medication pick‐up and sign out procedures, if necessary.
SCHOOL NURSE RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Document in PCS Portal that a medication has been discontinued.
• If the parent does not come to pick up the medication within 1 week after notifying the
school, a letter should be sent to the parent requesting pick‐up within 2 weeks.
Document in Portal that a letter was sent.
• If the parent does not respond to the letter, place a telephone call to the parent
requesting pick‐up of the medication. Notify the parent that the medication will be
destroyed if not picked up in the designated timeframe. Document in Portal that a
telephone call was made.
• If the parent does not respond after a letter and a phone call, follow the procedure for
medication disposal. Document the disposal in Portal, and on the medication card. File
the medication card with any paperwork to be boxed at the end of the school year. DO
NOT file the card in the student’s Cumulative Health Record.
End
of
the
School
Year
Procedures
No medications are to remain on school property at the end of the school year. Health
Services staff will make every effort to notify parents that medications must be picked up and
signed out by the last day of school. No medications will be sent home with a student.
PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES:
• It is the parent’s responsibility to pick up and sign out any unused medications at the
end of the school year.
• It is recommended to leave just enough medication at school to finish out the school
year. This can be done ahead of time.
SCHOOL PERSONNEL RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Notify the school nurse of any medication that has been picked up before the last day of
school.
• Assist parents with medication pick‐up and sign out procedures.
• Facilitate placing a notice in the final newsletter of the school year.
• If requested, place a SchoolMessenger call to parents reminding them of the need to
pick up medications by the last day of school.
• All medication must be counted out by a school staff member trained to administer
medication. Counting should take place in the presence of the adult who is picking the
medication up. The total being sent home with parent should then be documented on
the Administration of Medication card and signed by both staff member and parent.
SCHOOL NURSE RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Place a notice in the final newsletter of the year, stating a need to pick up medications
at the end of school.
• 2 weeks before school ends, send a letter home to the parents of all students receiving
medications at school. The letter must give a specific deadline for pick‐up. Document in
PCS Portal that a letter was sent home.
• The final week of school, attempt to make phone contact with any parent who has not
responded to the written letter. Notify the parent of the deadline. Document any
phone contact in Portal.
• Request that a SchoolMessenger call be placed to any parents who have not responded
to the letter or nurse call.
Medication
Disposal
Health Services staff will make every effort to notify parents of the need to pick up medications
remaining at school, including any that were expired or discontinued The destruction of
medication will be done only after reasonable attempts to facilitate removal have been made.
Parents must also remove any tubing or equipment necessary for medication delivery as well.
Any medication that is to be disposed of after reasonable attempts must be documented and
cosigned by a witness. The school nurse will be responsible for all medication disposals. The
witness can be a Registered Nurse, Licensed Practical Nurse, Certified Nursing Assistant, or
school staff member. Keep all medications in the original container.
SUPPLIES NEEDED:
1. Permanent marker
2. Liquid, such as water, coffee or soda
3. Something inedible, such as cat litter, dirt, sand or coffee grounds
4. A piece of fruit with a soft skin, such as an orange, banana or apple
5. Duct or packing tape
6. An opaque container
PROCEDURE:
1. With a permanent marker, mark out any identifying information on the medication
bottle for safety.
2. For pills, tablets, capsules: Add water, coffee or soda to the bottle to begin dissolving
the contents.
3. For liquids: Add something inedible, such as litter, dirt, sand or coffee grounds.
4. For metered dose inhalers: Disconnect the medication canister from the mouthpiece.
Break off the tab that holds the canister into the mouthpiece.
5. For injectables: Empty into the toilet or sink. Place the empty containers into the
sharps container. EpiPens can be injected into a piece of fruit.
6. Close all bottle lids and secure with duct or packing tape.
7. Place the bottles inside an opaque (not see‐through) container, such as a coffee can,
laundry detergent bottle or large food can from food services.
8. Tape that container closed with the duct or packing tape.
9. Dispose of this container in the regular trash. Do not put it in the recycle bin.
10. On the medication card, document the date and time of disposal, the name of the
medication disposed of, and how much was disposed. Both individuals should sign the
card.
PART
C:
PRESCRIPTION
MEDICATIONS
Administration
of
Prescription
Medication
Card
(blue
card)
• Blue cards should be ordered through the Warehouse #98333. School Health Services
does not keep a supply of medication cards.
• These cards are to be used for prescription medications only.
• The card only requires the parent signature, since the label on the bottle will provide
the health care provider’s order.
• The top of the card must be filled out completely and include: student name, date the
card is being filled out, student grade and teacher (if elementary school).
• If possible, the student’s picture should be attached to the card.
• The parent should fill out: name of the medication, dosage, reason for the medication,
medication expiration date and specific time the medication is to be given. Health
Services cannot accept orders that do not state a SPECIFIC chronological time (i.e. order
must read “at noon” and not “daily”). Parent must also sign and date the card and
provide a valid working telephone number.
• The medication card should be kept in a 3‐ring binder in the clinic. It is NOT to be kept
in the same folder or baggie as the medication.
• A new medication card is required each school year.
• A new medication card is required for any change in medication, dosage or time.
• All staff administering medications must complete the signature verification at the
bottom of the medication card.
Prescription
Medication
Guidelines
• Parent or parent designee must deliver all medications to school. Schools should
not accept medications brought in by students or bus assistants.
• Keep all prescription medications in their original pharmacy container.
• All prescriptions must have readable and currently dated pharmacy label. The label
should include:
¾ Student’s name
¾ Name of the medication
¾ Dosage instructions
¾ Specific time of administration during the school day
¾ Date the prescription was filled (must be within 1 calendar year)
¾ Health care provider name
¾ Pharmacy name and telephone number
• If the pharmacy label does not include a specific time of administration (i.e. must say
“at noon” instead of “daily”), the school should not accept the medication. Parents
should be directed to request a second label from the pharmacy with the
appropriate time(s) to be given during the school day.
• If there is any question concerning the medication, contact the parent, school nurse,
health care provider or pharmacy before administering the medication.
• School staff is not to administer prescription narcotics to students at school.
Narcotics can have many side effects that would hinder a student’s ability to learn.
These students are usually ill enough to remain at home. If there is a question about
whether a medication is a narcotic, contact the school nurse or School Health
Services.
• There are no legal restrictions preventing a parent from themselves administering a
medication in the school setting to his or her child.
• Emergency medications (EpiPen, Glucagon, and Diastat) are the only medications
that should leave the building in the event of an emergency.
PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Parent or parent designee must hand‐deliver medication to school in the original
labeled container.
• Medication in plastic bags, food storage containers, medication dividers or other non‐
pharmacy containers will not be accepted.
• It is recommended to provide the school with a maximum of a 30 day supply of
medication.
• Parent must count the medication in the presence of school personnel and sign the
medication card for verification.
SCHOOL PERSONNEL RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Do not accept medication without a completed medication card.
• Do not accept medication with incomplete, missing or unreadable pharmacy labels.
• Do not accept medication without a specific time of administration.
• Count the medication in the presence of the parent. Cosign the medication card to
verify the count.
• Notify parent, either in writing or over the phone, when medication supply is running
low. Document any parent contact on the medication card.
• Notify the school nurse of any new prescription medication accepted into the school.
SCHOOL NURSE RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Verify that all blue card information matches the prescription label. If they do not
match, contact the parent and/or health care provider for clarification. This includes
verifying that the prescription states a specific time of administration.
• Keep an accurate and up‐to‐date list of all medication in the school, using the template
provided by School Health Services. Update the list as needed.
Documentation
• Fill out all spaces of the medication card completely.
• The first time a trained designee administers a medication, they must sign their full legal
name at the bottom of the card for signature verification. After that initial time,
personnel can sign using their initials only if desired.
• Each day of the month, with the exception of weekends, must have proper
documentation on the medication card.
¾ If a student is absent, write the date and “Absent” on the appropriate line, carry
the medication count down to the next line and sign.
¾ If there is no school, write the date and “No School” on the appropriate line,
carry the medication count down to the next line and sign.
• The medication card must be kept in the 3‐ring binder.
• If a medication dose is omitted, it is acceptable to administer it up to 1 hour after the
scheduled time. Notify the parent as soon as possible. This will NOT be considered a
medication error.
• Any parent requests to hold medication must be received in writing with specific dates
and times to be held. Keep a copy of the request with the medication card and give the
original to the school nurse. Document on the medication card appropriately.
• Errors must be initialed and crossed out with a single strike line. Do not use correction
tape or fluid.
• Document in blue or black ink. Do not use pencil.
• Document immediately after administering the dose.
• If an entry is missed, document “Late Entry” next to the date when the entry is written
on the medication card.
PART
D:
OVER
THE
COUNTER
MEDICATIONS
Administration
of
Over
the
Counter
Medication
Card
(orange
card)
• Orange cards should be ordered through the Warehouse #98334. School Health
Services does not keep a supply of medication cards.
• These cards are to be used for over the counter or non‐prescription medications only.
• The card requires both a parent signature and a health care provider order with
signature.
• The top of the card must be filled out completely and include: student name, date the
card is being filled out, student grade and teacher (if elementary school).
• If possible, the student’s picture should be attached to the card.
• The HEALTH CARE PROVIDER must fill out the name of the medication, dosage, reason
for medication, and time interval for the medication to be given. The health care
provider must also sign and date the card and give the office telephone number.
• The parent must sign and date the card and provide a valid working telephone number.
• The medication card should be kept in a 3‐ring binder in the clinic. It is NOT to be kept
in the same folder or baggie as the medication.
• A new medication card is required each school year.
• A new medication card is required for any change in medication, dosage or time.
• All staff administering medications must complete the signature verification at the
bottom of the medication card.
Over
the
Counter
Medication
Guidelines
• Parent or parent designee must deliver all medications to school. Schools should not
accept medications brought in by students or bus assistants.
• Keep all over the counter medications in their original, unopened manufacturer
container.
• All bottles or boxes containing over the counter medications must be labeled with the
student’s name and grade.
• If there is any question concerning the medication, contact the parent, school nurse, or
health care provider before administration.
• No legal provisions exist to allow students to carry over the counter medications on
their person. Therefore, students are not permitted to self carry such medications on
school property.
• There are no legal restrictions preventing a parent from themselves administering a
medication in the school setting to his or her child.
• The school nurse or trained personnel should provide non‐medical treatments before
offering over the counter medication. Question the student about hunger, hydration
and lack of sleep. Offer appropriate non‐medical interventions such as a snack, water
and rest time.
• Before administering the over the counter medication, attempt to contact the parent by
telephone to determine if any prior doses of medication were given at home.
• When giving over the counter medications, be sure to check the expiration date on the
bottle. Do not administer expired medications. If expired, notify the parent as soon as
possible.
• Any student requiring over the counter medication more than 3 times in 1 month, or
more than 3 consecutive days in a row, should be referred to the school nurse.
• Sunscreen should be applied at home by the parent before school whenever possible. If
sunscreen is to be administered by school personnel, it will be treated as any other over
the counter medication. Florida State Statute 1001.43 allows for student to wear
sunglasses, hats or other protective wear while outdoors during school hours.
• FDA‐regulated non‐prescription herbal products will be treated the same as other non‐
prescription medications. Those products not regulated by the FDA will not be
administered by school personnel. Parents have the right to come to school and
administer such products to their children.
PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Parent or parent designee must deliver medication to school in the original unopened
manufacturer container.
• Medication in plastic bags, food storage containers, medication dividers or other non‐
original packaging will not be accepted.
• Parent must count the medication in the presence of school personnel and sign the
medication card for verification.
SCHOOL PERSONNEL RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Do not accept medication without a completed medication card.
• Do not accept medication that is not in its original unopened packaging.
• Count the medication in the presence of the parent. Cosign the medication card to
verify the count.
• Notify the school nurse of any new over the counter medication accepted into the
school.
SCHOOL NURSE RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Verify that all orange card information is complete and makes sense based on the age of
the student and the manufacturer’s recommended dosing. If there is any question or
concern, notify the student’s health care provider.
• Keep an accurate and up‐to‐date list of all medication in the school, using the template
provided by School Health Services. Update the list as needed.
Documentation
• Fill out all spaces of the medication card completely.
• The first time a trained designee administers a medication, they must sign their full legal
name at the bottom of the card for signature verification. After that initial time,
personnel can sign using their initials only if desired.
• The medication card must be kept in the 3‐ring binder.
• Errors must be initialed and crossed out with a single strike line. Do not use correction
tape or fluid.
• Document in blue or black ink. Do not use pencil.
• Document immediately after administering the dose.
PART
E:
SELF
‐
ADMINISTERED
MEDICATIONS
Introduction
Students with certain chronic health conditions (asthma, life‐threatening hypersensitivity to
food or insects, diabetes and pancreatic insufficiency) may require special circumstances.
These students often need certain life‐saving medications. Because these conditions will affect
the student for the rest of their lifetime, it is essential that these students become self‐
sufficient in their emergency care management. To that end, these students are permitted to
carry and administer their life‐saving medications if deemed appropriate by the parent, health
care provider, principal and school nurse. This right is granted by law in Florida Statute
1002.20. The medications covered under this law include: metered dose inhalers, epinephrine
auto‐injector (EpiPen), insulin and diabetic management supplies, and prescribed pancreatic
enzyme supplements. Pinellas County School Board policy 5330.01 – Self‐Administered
Medication also recognizes the student’s right to carry these medications.
Self administration of these medications requires authorization by both the parent and health
care provider. It is the responsibility of the school nurse to assess the safety of the student with
regards to self administration. Other than the specific Authorization to Self Carry form, no
other paperwork will be required for students who self administer. No other medications are
allowed to be carried by students except those detailed below. The school nurse has the right
and the duty to revoke the self administration privilege for any student the nurse assesses as
unsafe or ineffective.
1. METERED DOSE INHALER for asthma
F.S. 1002.20(3)(h): Asthmatic students whose parent and physician provide their approval to the school
principal may carry a metered dose inhaler on their person while in school. The school principal shall be
provided a copy of the parent’s and physician’s approval.
The parent and health care provider are to complete PCSB form 2‐3060: Authorization
to Carry and Self Administer Metered Dose Inhaler for Asthma. The original completed
authorization form will be kept in the 3‐ring binder that contains all medication cards. A
copy will be provided to the principal. Medication must be labeled with the student’s
name. Students may use their inhaler anywhere on school property. The school nurse
is required to train 3 school personnel who can assist the student with inhaler
administration in the event the student is unable to self administer.
2. EPINEPHRINE AUTO‐INJECTOR (EPIPEN) for life‐threatening allergic reactions
F.S. 1002.20(3)(i): A student who has experienced or is at risk for life‐threatening allergic reactions may
carry an epinephrine auto‐injector and self‐administer epinephrine by auto‐injector while in school,
participating in school‐sponsored activities, or in transit to or from school or school‐sponsored activities if
the school has been provided with parental and physician authorization.
The parent and health care provider are to complete PCSB form 2‐2366: Authorization
for Emergency Injection for Severe Allergy. The original completed authorization form
will be kept in the 3‐ring binder that contains all medication cards. A copy will be
provided to the principal. Medication must be labeled with the student’s name.
Students may use their EpiPen anywhere on school property, while participating in
school sponsored functions, or in transit to or from school activities. The school nurse is
required to provide student specific training to staff who have contact with the
hypersensitive student, including training at least 3 staff members to administer the
EpiPen in the event the student is unable to self administer.
3. INSULIN AND DIABETIC EQUIPMENT FOR DIABETES MANAGEMENT
F.S. 1002.20(3)(j): Diabetic students whose parent and physician provide their written authorization to
the school principal may carry diabetic supplies and equipment on their person and attend to the
management and care of their diabetes while in school, participating in school‐sponsored activities, or in
transit to or from school or school‐sponsored activities…The written authorization shall identify the
diabetic supplies and equipment that the student is authorized to carry and shall describe the activities
the child is capable of performing without assistance, such as performing blood‐glucose level checks and
urine ketone testing, administering insulin through the insulin‐delivery system used by the student, and
treating hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia.
In accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) of 1990, and the 2003 Nursing Guidelines for the
Delegation of Care for Students with Diabetes in Florida Schools, students with diabetes
are legally allowed to check blood glucose levels and respond to the results anywhere
on school property, while participating in school sponsored functions, or in transit to or
from school activities. The parent and physician are to complete PCSB form 2‐2966:
Authorization for Diabetes Management in School. The original completed
authorization form will be kept in the 3‐ring binder that contains all medication cards. A
4. PRESCRIBED PANCREATIC ENZYME SUPPLEMENTS FOR CYSTIC FIBROSIS
F.S. 1002.20(3)(k): A student who has experienced or is at risk for pancreatic insufficiency or who has
been diagnosed as having cystic fibrosis may carry and self‐administer a prescribed pancreatic enzyme
supplement while in school, participating in school‐sponsored activities, or in transit to or from school or
school‐sponsored activities if the school has been provided with authorization from the student’s parent
and prescribing practitioner.
The parent and health care provider are to complete PCSB form 2‐3162: Authorization
to Carry & Self‐Administer Pancreatic Enzyme. The original completed authorization
form will be kept in the 3‐ring binder that contains all medication cards. A copy will be
provided to the principal. Medication must be labeled with the student’s name.
Students may administer their enzyme supplement anywhere on school property, while
participating in school sponsored functions, or in transit to or from school activities. The
school nurse is required to provide student specific training on the signs and symptoms
of pancreatic insufficiency to school staff who have close contact with the student.
PART
F:
FIELD
TRIP
PROCEDURES
Introduction
Field trips often create challenging situations regarding students who require medication
administration. It is important to plan ahead for students with chronic health problems going
on a field trip. Field trip planning is a collaborative effort between administrators, the field trip
teacher and the school nurse. Both the school nurse and school staff must be aware of any
special medical issues of the students attending the trip. Students with chronic health
conditions CANNOT be excluded from going on a field trip that occurs during a regular school
day. The school may request that the student’s parent chaperone the trip but they cannot
require that the parent attend for student attendance. It is highly recommended that the
organizing teacher speak with the school nurse regarding the field trip details and discuss any
concerns or questions. Copies of field trip forms that indicate special health care needs should
be forwarded to the school nurse as soon as possible after the return deadline for nurse review
and planning.
Whenever possible, students should be encouraged to self‐carry inhalers, EpiPens, or
pancreatic enzymes if the student is deemed appropriate to do so. Medications that cannot be
self administered require a staff member trained in medication administration. Nurses must
train staff to administer medications on field trips. Trained school board personnel must
accompany a student needing medication on the bus. Those students should also be assigned
to a trained person’s group while on the field trip.
If medications need to be given while on a field trip, the same rules that govern medication
administration in school will apply. All medications will be kept safely with the designated
school board employee in their original container and label. It is not permissible to transfer
medications to any other container for field trip use. It is acceptable to administer medication
1 hour early or 1 hour later if the student will be out of the building at the scheduled
administration time. If given 1 hour early or 1 hour later due to a field trip, this should be noted
on the medication card. Volunteers or parent chaperones who are not school board employees
may NOT administer medications unless otherwise indicated below.
Diabetic students: A nurse must attend the field trip for any diabetic student who requires
insulin injection by a nurse or parent and whose parent is unable to attend the field trip. A
nurse should also attend the field trip of any diabetic student who is very young, newly
diagnosed, or otherwise unstable if the parent is unable to attend. Students who successfully
self‐manage their diabetic care while at school will not need a nurse to attend, provided that
the field trip teacher has received training on the signs and symptoms of hypo‐ and
hyperglycemia and emergency diabetic care.
Single
Day
Field
Trip
A single day field trip refers to a field trip that both begins and ends within normal school hours.
Only prescription medication will accompany students for single day field trips.
• On the day of the field trip, the school nurse or designated school personnel will make a
copy of the prescription medication card.
• 2 school board employees trained in medication administration will count the amount in
the bottle, document that amount on the copy of the medication card, and both will
sign.
• The original pharmacy bottle with label will then be transferred to the field trip teacher,
along with the copy of the medication card. The original card is to remain at the school
at all times.
• While on the field trip, a trained school board employee will give the medication at the
appropriate time, amount and route. Documentation should occur immediately after
administration.
• Upon return to school, the medication is to be returned to the clinic promptly. 2 trained
school board employees will count the amount remaining, document that amount on
the original medication card, and both will sign.
• The field trip documentation should be attached to the back of the original card.
• A notation should be made on the original card stating student attended a field trip on
that particular day.
Extended
Day/Multi
‐
Day
Field
Trip
An extended day field trip refers to a field trip that begins before and/or extends after the
normal duty day for school staff, but does not involve an overnight stay. A multi‐day field trip
refers to a field trip that involves any overnight stay, regardless of the amount of overnights.
General Guidelines:
• No medications, either prescription or over the counter, can be given to a student
without specific written physician orders and written parental consent.
• No additional orders are required unless the student requires different medications or
additional doses of medications other than those required in school. Medications such
as these will require written orders and consent.
• Parents are to provide all medications for extended or multi‐day field trip use in an
original labeled pharmacy container with specific dosing instructions and times.
Medications are not to come from the student’s school supply. It is recommended to
supply only the doses required to cover the field trip.
• Student must have a completed medication administration card on file with the school
before the field trip begins. Only prescription medication will accompany students for
extended day field trips. Both prescription and over the counter medications may
accompany students for extended or multi‐day field trips.
Extended Day Field Trips:
• On the day of the field trip (or the day before if the trip is to begin before school hours),
the school nurse or designated personnel will make a copy of the medication card.
• 2 school board employees trained in medication administration will count the amount in
the bottle, document that amount on the copy of the medication card, and both will
sign.
• The original pharmacy bottle with label will then be transferred to the field trip teacher,
along with the copy of the medication card. The original card is to remain at the school.
• While on the field trip, a trained school board employee will give the medication at the
appropriate time, amount and route. Documentation should occur immediately after
administration.
• Upon return to school (or first thing next morning if the trip returns after school hours)
the medication is to be returned to the clinic promptly. 2 trained school board
employees will count the amount remaining, document that amount on the original
medication card, and both will sign.
• The field trip documentation should be attached to the back of the original card.
• A notation should be made on the original card stating student attended a field trip on
Multi‐Day Field Trip:
• For prescription medications:
¾ Parent must complete prescription medication card including signature and date.
¾ Parent is to provide all medications – school is not to use the school’s supply.
¾ Prescription medications are to be brought to the school by the parent in the
original labeled pharmacy container, following all guidelines for Delivery of
Medications to School as outlined in Part B above.
¾ Medications are to be brought in 1 week before the field trip for the school
nurse to review.
¾ The procedure then continues as outlined above under Extended Day Field Trips.
¾ The parent must pick up any remaining prescription medications at the end of
the field trip, following the guidelines for sign‐out procedures as outlined in End
of the Year Procedures in Part B above. Medication will not be sent home with a
student regardless of age.
• For over the counter medications:
¾ Parent and health care provider must complete the over the counter medication
card, including all signatures and telephone numbers.
¾ Over the counter medications are to be brought to the school by the parent in
the original unopened container with the student’s full name written on the box.
Dosing and instructions on the box must be clearly visible. All guidelines as
outlined in Part B: Delivery of Medications to School will be followed.
¾ Medications are to be brought in 1 week before the field trip for the school
nurse to review.
¾ On the day of (or day before) the trip, the procedure continues as outlined above
under Extended Day Field Trips EXCEPT that field trip teacher may transfer over
the counter medications to the previously identified chaperone after the
medications have been signed out of the school. Chaperones who are not school
board employees may not sign out medications.
¾ The parent must pick up any remaining prescription medications at the end of
the field trip, following the guidelines for sign‐out procedures as outlined in End
of the Year Procedures in Part B above. Medication will not be sent home with a
student, regardless of type of medication or age of the student.
¾ On multi‐day school sponsored field trips only, a parent may designate a
chaperone who is not a school board employee to administer ONLY over the
PART
G:
MEDICATION
ADMINISTRATION
TECHNIQUES
General
Guidelines
• Respect the student’s individuality. Every student will want to take their medication a
certain way. Learn what each student wants and accommodate as much as possible.
• Always safeguard the student’s confidentiality and privacy. Whenever possible,
medications should be administered in the clinic.
• Medications can be given from 1 hour before to 1 hour after the scheduled time. For
example, if a medication is scheduled at 12:00 pm, the student can take the medication
anytime between 11:00 am and 1:00 pm. Optimally, the medication should be given at
the scheduled time, but giving it within the 1 hour before or after window does not
constitute a medication error.
• Follow all label directions and instructions carefully.
• Always wash your hands before and after administration.
• Training is required prior to any administration by non‐medical personnel.
• Be sure to tightly close all caps and lids to prevent contamination of the medication.
• Do not give any medication that is discolored or smells abnormal.
• Review all medication orders completely.
Oral
Medication
(tablets
and
capsules)
GENERAL INFORMATION:
• No tablet or capsule will be crushed at school unless approved in writing by the
student’s health care provider. If a medication is to be crushed, the parent must
provide both a pill crusher and the food to mix the crushed pill into.
• If tablets are to be split in half, the parent must do this before bringing the medication
to school. School board employees will not split pills.
• If the student desires, capsules can be pulled apart with the contents mixed in soft food
provided by the parent. Discard the empty capsule.
• Always give oral medication while the student is sitting upright or standing.
• If the student vomits after giving the medication, DO NOT REDOSE. Call the parent
immediately. Document the vomiting and parent call on the medication card.
• If the student refuses to take the medication, call the parent. Document the refusal and
parent call on the medication card.
SUPPLIES NEEDED:
• Medication
• Medicine cup
• Water, unless otherwise indicated
• Soft food for mixing, if needed
PROCEDURE:
1. Wash hands.
2. Open medication bottle and pour the necessary number of pills into the medicine cup or
bottle lid.
3. Assist the student in taking the medication, if necessary.
4. Follow the medication with water unless otherwise indicated on the order.
5. Recap the bottle.
6. Check the mouth to be certain the medication was swallowed.
7. Dispose of all used supplies.
8. Wash hands.
9. Document appropriately.
