Statement of intent

The Ark believes that the health and well being of children is of paramount importance.

Aim

We aim to minimise the hazards and risks to every person who enters the nursery setting.

Methods

The procedure for the administration of medicines must be overseen by The Manager.

 

  • Prescribed Medicines:

Sick children will not normally be looked after at The Ark.  Staff are not normally allowed to administer medicine; so if possible, the child’s parents should do so.  If this is not possible it should be agreed with The Manager.  In these circumstances, parents must explain the nature of the illness; bring medicine in the original container with labelled dosage instructions and any spoon or applicator which may be required.  A consent form should be completed, and signed by the parent/guardian, that is specific to the medication and the course of treatment.

The potential adverse effects of medicines (where known by the parents / guardians) should be made known to the person administering the medication, together with information on the importance of giving the correct dosage.

 

  • Regular Long Term Medication

Some children require regular long-term medicines for a variety of chronic conditions.  A declaration should be made by the parent at the time of admission or when treatment starts – relating to the details of such medication.  A consent form will be required for any long or short term medication that is administered.  This should be specific to the medication with clear instruction and reviewed regularly.

 

  • Medicines for Specific Events or Symptoms

Some children may require medication should they experience certain symptoms e.g. a child who has asthma may occasionally get wheezy.  The parent should explain clearly the indications for giving the medication and the way it is administered to the child, together with any likely adverse effects.  These should be clearly written and available to nursery staff together with the signed consent form. In certain situations( e.g. administration of an epi-pen for anaphylactic shock,) staff need to have specific training before being able to administer medication.a ,trained staff member must be in attendance at all sessions a child attends.

 

 

  • Homely Remedies

Homely remedies are not kept at The Ark.  If a child is so unwell as to require medication for a high temperature, parents should keep them at home or if the temperature begins at The Ark, the parents should be contacted and asked to collect their child as soon as possible.  Removal of clothes and tepid sponging may be used to relieve distress due to the temperature while waiting for a parent’s arrival.  Professional advice will be sought if this is not effective.  In the situation where a child is known to be prone to febrile convulsions the parent should provide clear instruction for specific symptoms if they wish any medication to t be administered.

 

Any medicines are kept in the lockable filing cabinet in the office.  They should be clearly marked with the child’s name.  The Consent for Administration of Medicines Forms will also be kept in the filing cabinet.