We have went over and over how we need to revise the medication administration policy before next year. In my state the RNs can not dispense OTC meds without a Dr. order. But of course we are asked to do it everyday. The current policy is "Prescription meds in pharmacy bottle with label and authorization note from parent." Which that is fine. The OTC part is stupid and redundant "The parent must give consent for their child to have OTC meds such as Tylenol or IBU that they will supply to the school. The school does will not supply OTC meds." Well hello if I provide a bottle of Tylenol for my child then yes I am giving permission for them to have it. But the teachers do not want to give any meds. The expect me or the other nurse to give it all. We cant give OTCs I have screamed this till I am blue in the face. No we have no medical director and no standing orders either. And after asking for a meeting to review policies and getting no response to that I get an email asking me to read this and see if I agree with it. Um NO it addresses nothing! And NO the students may NOT bring any medication to school! I am about to curse! And of course it says nothing new about OTC meds.
Student Medication
Students who need to take medication during the school day should bring their medications with a note that is dated and signed by the parent with instructions as to how the medication should be given to the school office. The medication must be in the student's name if prescribed by a doctor. If the medication is over the counter, the medication must be in the original packaging with dispensing information. Each school should have a designated person to administer the medication to students. That individual shall be trained by the district nurse on the proper procedures to be followed when administering medication to students. Refer to full policy in the student handbook.