Current through Register 1527, August 2, 2024
Section 210.008 - Handling, Storage and Disposal of Prescription Medications(A) A parent, guardian or parent/guardian-designated responsible adult shall deliver all prescription medications to be administered by school personnel or to be taken by self-medicating students, if required by the self-administration agreement ( 105 CMR 210.006(B) ), to the school nurse or other responsible person designated by the school nurse. (1) The prescription medication must be in a pharmacy or manufacturer labelled container.(2) The school nurse or other responsible person receiving the prescription medication shall document the quantity of the prescription medication delivered.(3) In extenuating circumstances, as determined by the school nurse, the prescription medication may be delivered by other persons; provided, however, that the nurse is notified in advance by the parent or guardian of the arrangement and the quantity of prescription medication being delivered to the school.(B) All prescription medications shall be stored in their original pharmacy or manufacturer labelled containers and in such manner as to render them safe and effective.(C) All prescription medications to be administered by school personnel shall be kept in a securely locked cabinet used exclusively for medications, which is kept locked except when opened to obtain medications. The cabinet shall be substantially constructed and anchored securely to a solid surface. Prescription medications requiring refrigeration shall be stored in either a locked box in a refrigerator or in a locked refrigerator maintained at temperatures of 38°F to 42°F.(D) Access to stored prescription medications shall be limited to persons authorized to administer prescription medications and to self-medicating students, to the extent permitted by school policy developed pursuant to 105 CMR 210.006(B)(8). Access to keys and knowledge of the location of keys shall be restricted to the maximum extent possible. Students who are self-medicating shall not have access to other students' medications.(E) Parents or guardians may retrieve the prescription medications from the school at any time.(F) No more than a 30 school day supply of the prescription medication for a student shall be stored at the school.(G) Where possible, all unused, discontinued or outdated prescription medications shall be returned to the parent or guardian and the return appropriately documented. In extenuating circumstances, with parental consent when possible, such prescription medications may be destroyed by the school nurse in accordance with any applicable policies of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Division of Food and Drugs.