Administration of Medicine FAQs

Yes, there is cover provided for Administration of medicine under the Custodian School Protection Policy. Cover is provided arising out of or in connection with the:

(a) supply and / or administration by qualified nursing staff of drugs injections or medicines as prescribed by a qualified medical practitioner

(b) supply and / or administration by a responsible adult of drugs or medicines as prescribed by a qualified medical practitioner

(c) supply and / or administration of drugs or medicines which are available without prescription

(d) taking of blood samples by qualified nursing staff as prescribed by a qualified medical practitioner

All Schools should have a clear administration of medicine policy which is agreed with relevant parents and staff.

The Board of Management are responsible for devising and implementing the Administration of Medicine Policy.

It is up to each School to set out their own administration of medication procedures, some of which include:

• The Board of Management should be satisfied that appropriate training has been provided, and all parties should be aware of what is expected of them.
• A second staff member should also be trained as back-up in case the original staff member is out sick or unavailable.
• The medicines should be clearly labelled and safely stored (or refrigerated if necessary) in their original container.
• Security and accessibility are equally important when medicines are taken on School trips.
• A written record should be kept of the dates and times of administration and a note of any side effects. Any guidelines as outlined and agreed with the Schools Management Association should be followed.
• The administration of medicine procedure should be agreed with parents of pupils who may require medicine to be administered during Schools hours. Written instruction and consent should be received from the parents.