Administering Pain Relief in School
We would like to remind parents and carers of our policy on administering pain relief (such as Calpol) in school.
School policy on the administration of pain relief
Purpose
This policy outlines the school’s approach to the administration of pain relief (such as
Calpol) to ensure the safety and well-being of all children while maintaining clear and
consistent procedures.
This policy outlines the school’s approach to the administration of pain relief (such as
Calpol) to ensure the safety and well-being of all children while maintaining clear and
consistent procedures.
Policy Statement
The school does not administer pain relief, such as Calpol, to children at the request of
parents or carers. Pain relief will only be given in exceptional circumstances, where a
child is assessed by a qualified first aider to be in clear and significant discomfort and
where administering pain relief is deemed necessary for their immediate well-being.
Key Principles
1. Parental Requests:
o The school will not administer pain relief based solely on a request from a
parent or carer.
o Parents/carers are advised to administer medication at home before or after
school as required.
o The school will not administer pain relief based solely on a request from a
parent or carer.
o Parents/carers are advised to administer medication at home before or after
school as required.
2. Assessment by First Aiders:
o A trained first aider will assess the child’s condition if they present as unwell.
o If the child is in serious discomfort, a decision may be made to administer
pain relief if it is judged to be in the best interest of the child.
o Parents/carers will be informed prior to administration wherever possible.
When a child starts at the school, parents/carers will consent or not consent to
pain relief being administered to their child where required.
3. Consent and Records:
o The school will keep a clear record of any medication administered, including
time, dosage, and the name of the first aider responsible.
4. Alternative Actions:
o If a child is unwell and requires medication, parents/carers will be contacted to
collect their child where necessary.
o The school will encourage rest, hydration, and non-medicated comfort
measures where appropriate.
5. Emergency Situations:
o If a child’s condition worsens or is of serious concern, emergency procedures
will be followed, including contacting parents or seeking medical assistance
as required.
The only circumstance when the above procedures would not be followed is if the school received direct guidance to do so from a qualified medical professional working with the child.
If you have any questions about this, please speak to Mrs. O'Driscoll our First Aid Leader in school or the school office.
Our full 'First Aid' and 'Supporting Children with Medical Conditions' policies can be viewed below:
