Medication Administration
Medication Administration refers to the important responsibility of safely giving medicines to children in childcare settings. This includes following proper procedures for storing, documenting, and giving both prescription and over-the-counter medications. Childcare workers who handle medications must typically complete special training and certification to ensure they understand safety protocols, proper dosing, and emergency procedures. This skill is essential in daycare centers, preschools, and other childcare environments where staff may need to give medicine to children with chronic conditions, allergies, or temporary illnesses.
Examples in Resumes
Completed Medication Administration certification and maintained accurate medication logs for 15 children
Supervised daily Medicine Administration procedures for classroom of 12 toddlers
Trained new staff on proper Medication Administration protocols and documentation requirements
Typical job title: "Childcare Workers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Childcare Workers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Training Resources
Example Interview Questions
Lead Teacher/Director Level Questions
Q: How would you develop a medication administration policy for a childcare center?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating clear procedures for medication storage, documentation, staff training, parent communication, and emergency protocols. Should mention compliance with state regulations and best practices for safety.
Q: How do you train new staff members on medication administration?
Expected Answer: Should explain the importance of hands-on training, documentation review, proper storage procedures, and emergency response. Should emphasize double-checking procedures and maintaining accurate records.
Experienced Teacher Level Questions
Q: What steps do you take when administering medication to a child?
Expected Answer: Should describe checking authorization forms, verifying correct child/medication/dose, proper hand washing, documentation, and monitoring for adverse reactions.
Q: How do you handle a situation where a medication dosage seems incorrect?
Expected Answer: Should explain contacting parents for verification, checking documentation, consulting with supervisors, and not administering medication if there are any doubts about safety.
Entry Level Questions
Q: What information must be on a medication's label before you can give it to a child?
Expected Answer: Should mention child's name, doctor's name, medication name, dosage, expiration date, and instructions for administration.
Q: Where should medications be stored in a childcare setting?
Expected Answer: Should explain that medications must be in locked storage, out of children's reach, at proper temperature, and separated by child.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-1 years)
- Basic understanding of medication safety
- Ability to follow written instructions
- Documentation skills
- Knowledge of proper hand washing
Mid (1-3 years)
- Medication administration certification
- Emergency response procedures
- Parent communication
- Proper storage protocols
Senior (3+ years)
- Staff training abilities
- Policy development
- Emergency planning
- Regulatory compliance knowledge
Red Flags to Watch For
- No formal medication administration training or certification
- Casual attitude toward medication safety procedures
- Poor record-keeping habits
- Unfamiliarity with basic safety protocols
Related Terms
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