Recent input from the Board of Nursing (BON) about school nurses administering medication based on parents’ written request can be summarized succinctly: “A parent’s request is not sufficient by itself for nurses to administer medication. This is true for all nurses in every setting.” 

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR SCHOOL NURSES: Regardless of what is stated in their district’s Board Policy FFAC or the student handbook, a school nurse should have a signed order (from MD, DO, APRN, PA, dentist, or podiatrist) before administering any medication (prescription or OTC) to meet the standards of the Nursing Practice Act. This includes oral and topical medication (such as cortisone or other ‘itch’ creams, antibiotic ointment, orajel, cream or gel with lidocaine, sting relief pads, etc). Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action from the Board of Nursing.

We currently have standing orders for topical medications including, but not limited to, hydrocortisone cream, antibiotic ointment, Bactine, and salt for gargle/rinse.  Please reach out to your campus nurse if you have any questions.