By Vishal Mehta, BPharm, RPh
September is almost upon us which means it’s time to prepare for back-to-school. This is also a good time to prepare your child’s prescription medications that need to be administered during school hours. Here are some tips to help make the process easier:
- Most schools have a policy with regards to handling prescription medication, so make sure you understand those rules. Specifically, who is allowed to administer medication? Is your child allowed to carry their medication unsupervised? Finding answers to these questions is a good starting point.
- Provide the school with clear instructions on the correct administration of the medication. This should include the proper times of administration and storage requirements. Ensure the school also has the up-to-date emergency contact information for your child.
- Keep track of your child’s medication supply, especially if the medication must be stored at school. This will ensure there are no missed doses.
- Where possible, and depending on the age of the child, help them recognize signs/symptoms and when to ask for help. For example, shortness of breath in children with asthma, and when to use their rescue inhaler.
Your pharmacy can help prepare your child’s medication for school and where appropriate, dispense in easier to use compliance packaging.
