Medication
To ensure schools store and administer medication correctly, they should refer to the department’s Medication policy.
The principal or their delegate must not:
- store or administer painkillers such as aspirin and paracetamol as a standard first aid strategy as they can mask signs and symptoms of serious illness or injury
- allow a student to take their first dose of a new medication at school in case of an allergic reaction. This must be done under the supervision of the family or health practitioner
- allow use of medication by anyone other than the prescribed student.
Note: Only in an emergency situation could this requirement be varied. For example, if a student is having an asthma attack and their own blue reliever puffer is not readily available, one should be obtained and given without delay.
Schools must obtain written advice on a Medication authority form for all medication to be administered by the school. It is recommended that the form be completed by the student’s medical/health practitioner ensuring that the medication is warranted. However if this advice cannot be provided the principal may agree that the form can be completed by parents or carers or adult or independent students.
When administering medication the principal, or their nominee must ensure that a log is kept of medicine administered
School staff are responsible for carrying and dispensing their own medication (prescribed or over the counter).
Reviewed 02 November 2023