Medication Administration

In order for schools to dispense medication at schools to students (whether prescription or over-the-counter) Washington State law requires the following:

1. Written permission and instructions from the prescribing health professional.
2. Written permission from the parent.
3. Medication in the original container and accurately labeled with the student’s name and correct dose/instructions.
4. Medications are stored in a secured area at school at all times UNLESS both doctor and parent have determined that the medication needs to be carried by the student for emergency use. These medications are inhalers for asthma, epinephrine auto-injectors for severe allergic reactions, and insulin for diabetes. In these cases the doctor must give written permission for the student to carry their medication.
5. Medication must be brought to school by a responsible adult (unless ordered by the doctor as a self carried medication as in #4 above). Emergency medications may be sent to the office with your student per district policy if prearranged with health room staff. 
6. Permission and instructions are good for the current school year only.

The prescribing health professional must include the name of the medication, the dosage and time of administration, the reason the medication needs to be given at school, and possible side effects of the medication. This requirement applies to all medications, including menthol cough drops and over-the-counter pain relievers.

If at any time the parent is not able to get the prescribing health professional's written permission for the school to administer a medication, the parent/guardian must personally come to the school and administer the medication to the student.

If your child has a potentially life threatening health condition, it is required by law that a plan of care developed by the school nurse must be completed and medication be at school BEFORE your child attends.

 

Medication Administration Form