Requires school districts to maintain supply of nasal rescue medication and oxygen for seizure emergencies; provides for training of designees to administer nasal rescue medication and oxygen when school nurse is not physical present.
Upon enactment, this bill will amend existing state laws governing school health services to ensure the availability of life-saving medications for students experiencing seizures. It expands the responsibility of school nurses to not only manage the administration of these medications but also to train and designate other school employees to respond in emergencies, thereby increasing overall student safety and health care readiness. Overall, the legislation aims to establish a systematic approach to handling medical emergencies within educational settings.
Senate Bill S3375 requires all school districts in New Jersey to maintain a supply of nasal rescue medications, specifically diazepam and midazolam, as well as portable oxygen devices for use during seizure emergencies. The bill stipulates that these supplies must be readily accessible in secure, unlocked locations throughout school buildings, ensuring a timely response to seizure incidents during school hours and at school-sponsored events. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of trained personnel being available to administer these medical interventions when school nurses are not present.
Notable points of contention regarding S3375 may arise from concerns about liability and the extent of responsibility placed on schools and personnel who administer these medications. The bill specifies that parents or guardians must consent to the administration of medications and acknowledge the school's limited liability in case of adverse outcomes. This requirement might provoke discussions among stakeholders regarding the adequacy of protections for school employees, the necessity of additional training protocols, and the financial implications of implementing these measures, especially concerning the reimbursement of costs to school districts by the Department of Education.