There are updated medical directives that stipulate that school health offices can no longer administer FDA-classified OTC products that have previously been available for student use with our Medical Director’s consent, including but not limited to petroleum jelly, antibiotic ointment, first aid antiseptic, alcohol prep pads, contact solution, and unscented hand/body lotion.
Going forward, for your child to receive FDA-classified OTC products in school (a comprehensive list is available here), a Treatment Authorization Form must be signed by BOTH a licensed healthcare provider AND a parent or guardian. This form is in addition to the Medication Authorization Form that is required for nursing staff to administer oral medications, including OTC medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, during the school day. Students with standing medication orders for oral medications will not be affected.
All emergency medications, including diphenhydramine (Benadryl), epinephrine (EpiPens), and opioid antagonists (Narcan), will still be available.
If you have any questions regarding these changes, please contact your child's school nurse.
