Healthy Environments Page 9

Key Points to Medication Management

Key points to remember regarding administering medication:

Only documented staff who have been trained and oriented to your medication policies can give medications to children.
There must be a start and stop date for each medication. You should only give the medication for the duration of the illness. Medications should be given “as needed.”
Return any unused portion to the family.
Read all labels carefully!
Parents should give written consent before you give any child any medication.
Non-prescription medications also require family consent, such as antihistamines, non-aspirin fever reducers / pain relievers, decongestants, ointments for dry skin or diaper area, and sunscreen.
You may not mix medications in formula or food unless you have written directions to do so from a health care provider.
Prescription medication should be in the original prescription bottle or packaging.