Education
BY BRITTANY ANDERSON
Doctor’s note required for students’ over-the-counter medication
What to expect
LTISD lead nurse Jennifer Ennis said the district has a request for medication administration form, which must be completed before a student receives any medication. In the event that a student needs medication during the day but does not have the proper authorization in place, parents or guardians are contacted first for permission, then emergency contacts if they are unavailable, Ennis said. EISD also requires a medication authorization form. Lead nurse Leslie Boldrick said the district has standing orders for emergency medications and some over-the-counter medications that parents can opt in for during enrollment, such as rash creams, antihistamines and ointments. Otherwise, all other medications must have a signed physician form.
Recent changes enacted by the Texas Board of Nursing have established new rules surrounding school nurses and their ability to administer over-the-counter medications. While additional guidance is coming, according to a BON representative, many school districts such as Lake Travis ISD and Eanes ISD have already implemented the changes for the 2024-25 school year. Per the changes, a physician or dentist note along with parent or guardian authorization is required for school nurses to administer over- the-counter medications. An Aug. 19 BON news release stated that administering over-the-counter medication without a valid order falls outside the scope of professional nursing practices.
Some over-the-counter medications requiring authorization in districts include:
Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen
Eye drops
Antibiotic ointment
Reflux medication
SOURCE: LESLIE BOLDRICK, EANES ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT
“The Board is consulting with the Texas School Nurses Organization ... to develop guidance that aligns with legal standards and practical considerations,” the release stated.
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