Medication Administration Policy

The school nurse is responsible for the administration of all medications. For "over-the-counter" medications, i.e., nonprescription medications, the school nurse shall follow protocols set by the Board of Registration in Nursing. Over the counter medications:With parent/guardian permission (found on the back of the Student Registration/Verification Information form) the school nurse can administer the over-the-counter medications, Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen as needed. Other over-the-counter medications such as Antacid, Diphenhydramine (Benadryl), etc. cannot be given without specific parent/guardian consent. Prescription Medications: For daily or routine medications, a medication permission form must be completed and on file in the Health Office before any medication is administered. Whenever possible, medication should be scheduled at times other than during school hours. All medication must be delivered by the parent/guardian in the original container and labeled with the student's name. No more than a thirty (30) school day supply of the medication for a student shall be stored at the school. Prescription medication must be in a pharmacy or manufacturer labeled container with full prescription instructions on the label. Self administration of medication may be allowed under certain circumstances, but only after consultation with the school nurse, i.e. Asthma Inhalers, Epinephrine Auto Injectors, Migraine medication. For short-term medications, i.e., those requiring administration for ten school days or fewer, the pharmacy-labeled container may be used in lieu of a MD order.

The Dover-Sherborn Middle and High School will not delegate or authorize unlicensed personnel to administer any medication, except in the following circumstances:

1. For the purpose of administering emergency medication to a student, the school nurse may identify individual school personnel who shall be listed on the medication plan and receive training in the administration of emergency medication to a specific student.
    
2. In the case of field trips and other short-term special school events, the nurse may delegate medication administration to another responsible adult. Written consent from the parent/guardian for the named responsible adult to administer the medication shall be obtained. The school nurse shall instruct the responsible adult on how to administer the medication. Any medication left over at the end of the school year must be picked up or it will be discarded. Medication orders must be renewed at the beginning of each school year.