Medication
Guidelines for taking medications while at school
To ensure students receive needed medication and that it is not misused, District 196 has developed rules for the administration of medication in school. All prescription medication must be kept in the office of the school nurse and must be administered by the school nurse or other appropriate school personnel, unless the Authorization for Student Possession and Self-medication with Inhaler, Epi-Pen and/or Insulin form at school has been completed and is on file with the school nurse. Our health offices will also continue to support students with strategies like rest, hydration, heating packs, and education about healthy habits.
Over-the-counter medications:
Our school health offices do not stock over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, antacids, and Benadryl for students.
- Students with chronic health conditions who need over-the-counter medication can provide an unopened, original bottle of the medication to the school nurse, along with signed authorization from the health care provider and parent/guardian.
- In grades 7–12, students may self-carry nonprescription pain relievers (ex: ibuprofen, acetaminophen) with annual permission (can be completed in the Campus Parent Portal).
- Guardians may talk to a school nurse about coming to school to administer medication if needed.
Emergency medications (such as epinephrine and naloxone) are available as authorized by statute.
Prescription medications:
Health services staff can administer medication listed and described in the standard physician’s desk reference (PDR).
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A completed Prescription Medication Authorization form signed by a student’s parent or guardian and medication in a prescription bottle or original container is required before a school nurse will give a student prescription or non-prescription medication. This form is available from your child's school nurse.
- If medication is to be given for more than two weeks, a written order from a physician or dentist must be provided to the school.
- If prescription medication remains in the nurse’s office after the end of a school year or when the student is no longer attending the school, the nurse will contact the student’s guardian to pick up the medication. If is not picked up within one month, it will be destroyed.
- Questions concerning inhalers, insulin and Epi-Pens should be discussed with your school nurse.