TO CLARIFY THE TYPES OF EPINEPHRINE FOR USE IN ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN THIS STATE.

More epinephrine options for students in Arkansas

Arkansas's Alex’s Law covers both FDA-approved epinephrine auto-injectors and nasal sprays for severe allergic reactions. Students can carry and use epinephrine or prescription asthma inhalers during school and school-sponsored activities, including off-site events. State education officials must develop guidelines for this access. Parents must give written permission, renewed each school year and whenever the student changes schools. Schools must keep accessible records showing a prescription, medical need, and an individual health plan. Parents supply medication in its original prescription-labeled container, and students must show their prescriber and school nurse they can use it. Students cannot share medication; parents must make it immediately available for emergencies when students do not carry it. Districts and public charter schools must adopt policies allowing nurses or trained staff to give epinephrine or albuterol through prescriptions, physician standing protocols, or individual health plans. Schools must establish health plans for certificates from physicians, advanced practice registered nurses, or physician assistants authorizing staff to possess and administer these medicines. Nurses must administer medication under physician standing protocols and keep school epinephrine supplies locked and secure. Districts must stock albuterol and name an employee responsible for storage, maintenance, and distribution; manufacturer agreements can provide free or discounted supplies. Districts, employees, and physicians providing standing protocols or prescriptions have protection from damage claims for good-faith administration, but not intentional or willful misconduct.