Missouri Senate Bill SB1210

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/22
• Refer: 3/29/22

Caption

Provides for school contracted agents trained by a nurse to administer an epinephrine auto syringe

Impact

By allowing trained employees or contracted agents supervised by school nurses to administer epinephrine, SB1210 aims to mitigate the response time during allergic emergencies that could potentially save lives. The provision emphasizes that immunity from civil liability extends not only to the nurses but also to the other trained personnel, which may encourage more schools to adopt this practice. Moreover, this legislative change could set a precedent for similar health-related policies in educational institutions across the state, significantly impacting student health protocols.

Summary

Senate Bill 1210 focuses on the administration of epinephrine auto syringes in schools. It provides a framework for school boards to authorize licensed school nurses to maintain an adequate supply of epinephrine and outlines the procedures for obtaining these supplies through prescriptions from qualified medical professionals. The bill seeks to enhance the safety of students by enabling trained staff to administer epinephrine during life-threatening anaphylactic reactions, a significant medical emergency that can occur in school settings.

Contention

While the bill appears straightforward, there may be points of contention, particularly around the extent of training required for non-nursing staff who will administer epinephrine. Concerns may arise regarding the adequacy of training programs and whether they sufficiently prepare staff to handle such critical situations. Additionally, discussions could include the availability of resources, such as appropriate training materials and the financial cost of maintaining an adequate supply of epinephrine at schools, especially for districts with limited budgets.