Section 407.360   Medications

a)         The day care center shall maintain a written policy regarding medications.

b)         Both prescription and non-prescription medication shall be accepted only in its original container.

1)         Prescription medications shall be labeled with the full pharmacy label.

2)         Over-the-counter (non-prescription) medication shall be clearly labeled with the child's first and last name.  The container shall be in such condition that the name of the medication and the directions for use are clearly readable.

c)         Medication shall be administered in a manner that protects the safety of the child.

1)         A specific staff person shall be designated to administer and properly document the dispensation of the medication each day.

2)         Prescription medication shall be administered as required by a physician subject to the receipt of appropriate releases from parents, which shall be on file and regularly updated. Prescription medication shall be used only for the child named on the label.

3)         Over-the-counter medications may be dispensed in accordance with manufacturer's instructions when provided by the parent with written permission.

4)         The day care center shall maintain a record of the dates, times administered, dosages, prescription number, if applicable, and the name of the person administering the medication.

d)         Medications shall be safely stored.

1)         Medication containers shall have child-protection caps whenever possible.

2)         All medication, whether refrigerated or unrefrigerated, shall be kept in locked cabinets or other containers that are inaccessible to children and that are designated and used only for this purpose.

3)         Medications shall be kept in a well-lighted area.

4)         Medications shall be kept out of the reach of children.

5)         Medication shall not be kept in rooms where food is prepared or stored, unless refrigerated in a separate locked container.

e)         Medication shall not be used beyond the date of expiration.

f)         When a child no longer needs to receive medication, the unused portion or empty bottle shall be returned to the parent.

g)         Any topical products, such as diaper ointment, sunscreen or insect repellant, whether supplied by the parent or by the child care center, shall be approved by the parent in writing prior to use on the child.

(Source:  Added at 22 Ill. Reg. 1728, effective January 1, 1998)