NASN’s Medication Administration Clinical Guideline

Abstract

Despite the volume of medications that are administered in schools, school nurse guidelines for administering medications in schools lacked the support of empirical literature to guide best practices. Some states issue guidelines that summarize state regulations or dictate the standards and processes. However, state school nursing manuals rely on tradition and professional judgment for suggested medication practices. Medication practices may vary significantly from building to building within a school district. The National Association of School Nurses commissioned a uniform clinical practice guideline (CPG) for the administration of medications in schools based on a systematic review of the literature. The CPG for medications administered in schools provides direction for state school nurse consultants, school districts, and nurses working independently in schools by creating the structure and processes of care to lead to optimal outcomes including increased medication adherence, fewer errors, and decreased morbidity and mortality. The School Nursing Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guideline: Medication Administration in Schools guide school policy and provide evidence for policy changes for state legislation.