Virginia Law

A. Prescription and nonprescription medications shall be given to a child:

1. According to the home's written medication policies, and

2. Only with written authorization from the parent.

B. The vendor may administer prescription medication that would normally be administered by a parent or guardian to a child provided:

1. The medication is administered by a caregiver who meets the requirements of 8VAC20-790-250 I and J;

2. The caregiver administers only those drugs that were dispensed from a pharmacy and maintained in the original, labeled container; and

3. The caregiver administers drugs only to the child identified on the prescription label in accordance with the prescriber's instructions pertaining to dosage, frequency, and manner of administration.

C. The vendor may administer nonprescription medication provided the medication is:

1. Administered by a caregiver 18 years of age or older;

2. Labeled with the child's name;

3. In the original container with the manufacturer's direction label attached; and

4. Given only at the dose, duration, and method of administration specified on the manufacturer's label for the age or weight of the child needing the medication.

D. Nonprescription medication shall not be used beyond the expiration date of the product.

E. Medications for children in care shall be stored separately from medications for household members and caregivers.

F. When needed, medication shall be refrigerated.

G. When medication is stored in a refrigerator used for food, the medications shall be stored together in a container or in a clearly defined area away from food.

H. Medication, except for those prescriptions designated otherwise by written physician's order, including refrigerated medication and medications for caregivers and household members, shall be kept in a locked place using a safe locking method that prevents access by children. If a key is used, the key shall be inaccessible to the children.

I. The vendor shall keep a record of prescription and nonprescription medication given children, which shall include the following:

1. Name of the child to whom medication was administered;

2. Amount and type of medication administered to the child;

3. The day and time the medication was administered to the child;

4. Name of the caregiver administering the medication;

5. Any adverse reactions; and

6. Any medication error.