2. Definition of School Nursing
School nursing, a specialized practice of public health nursing, protects and promotes student health, facilitates normal development, and advances academic success. School nurses, grounded in ethical and evidence-based practice, are the leaders that bridge health care and education, provide care coordination, advocate for quality student-centered care, and collaborate to design systems that allow individuals and communities to develop their full potentials. Approved by the NASN Board of Directors June 2016.

3. Medication administration to students is one of the most common health related activities performed in school. Historically administrating medication within the school setting is a school nurse responsibility. As more chronically ill, medically stable children enter the school system each year, awareness of the factors that can promote and support their academic success increases, including the need for medications that enhance the students overall health or stabilize their chronic condition.

4. Frequently Asked
Questions

5. Why are school nurses not permitted to administer over the counter medications such as Advil or Tylenol without a doctors order?
In accordance with New Jersey Law, only licensed physicians or advanced practice nurses (APNs) are permitted to make medical diagnosis or prescribe medications. Certified School Nurses are registered nurses (RNs) and thus must have a physicians order to administer any over the counter medications or prescription medications. In some districts, school physicians may authorize standing orders and protocols that permit school nurses to administer certain medications.

9. Are teachers and other school personnel permitted to administer medication in school?
NO Teachers and other school personnel are not appropriately licensed to administer medications. However, New Jersey law permits specially trained school personnel to administer certain emergency medications.

10. Under what conditions can the school nurse delegate to other school personnel the administration of certain medications?
N.J.S.A.18A: permits delegation for the emergency administration of epinephrine and N.J.S.A. 18A: permits the delegation of glucagon. For more info please refer to the Guild lines for Care of Students with Diabetes in the School Setting and the Training Protocols for the Emergency Administration of Epinephrine

13. Are students permitted to carry their own inhalers while at school and at school sponsored activities such as sporting events?
YES. N.J.S.A. 18A: permits the self administration of medication by a pupil for asthma or other potentially life threatening illnesses or a life threatening allergic reaction. School nurses must ensure that the student’s asthma treatment plan is current and reflects the student’s needs.

15. Are students permitted to carry and administer insulin?
YES. N.J.S.A. 18A permits students to manage their diabetes during the school day and at school sponsored events. Every school year, parents must submit to the school nurse healthcare provider orders for diabetes management in School.

17. Why are school nurses in our district not allowed to treat students for headaches?
Our school doctor does not allow the school nurse to administer medication for headaches unless we have an order from the students private physician. There are many reasons why students can have a headache ranging from stress to lack of sleep to being hungry.

19. Any Questions or Concerns