About this information:
This information was prepared by the American Diabetes Association, a national leader in diabetes information and advocacy. It covers state rules on diabetes care in Mississippi schools, and may not include all the important details. We strive to be constantly up to date, but laws can change. It is not a substitute for professional legal advice.
1. Does Mississippi allow school staff members who are not health care professionals to administer insulin?
No. The rules do not specifically mention insulin, but in general medication administration is mentioned as a task for licensed nurses only. Miss. Code Ann. § 73-15-5.
Regardless, federal laws may allow unlicensed staff to provide this care. This may be necessary so that children with diabetes can access education just like any other child. In case of a conflict between federal and state laws, federal laws protect the rights of children. The law in this area is very complicated so we encourage you to contact us for further information.
2. Does Mississippi allow school staff members who are not health care professionals to administer glucagon?
Yes. Mississippi rules make an exception for “furnishing of nursing assistance in an emergency.” Miss. Code Ann. § 73-15-7. Since glucagon is almost always administered in an emergency, it should be allowed under Mississippi law.
3. Does Mississippi allow students to self-manage diabetes at school
The law is unclear. Even if state law is not clear, federal laws may allow capable students to self-administer diabetes care. This may be necessary so that children with diabetes can access education just like any other child.
4. Does Mississippi allow students to carry diabetes supplies such as needles, insulin, and blood glucose testing devices?
The law is unclear. Even if state law is not clear, federal laws may allow capable students to have diabetes care supplies at school. This may be necessary so that children with diabetes can access education just like any other child.
Resources:
For more information, see the following helpful resources:
- Miss. Code Ann. § 73-15-5; Regulation of Practice of Nursing, Delegation (PDF)
- Miss. Code Ann. § 73-15-7. Regulation of Practice of Nursing, Exceptions (PDF)
- Mississippi Administrative Code Title 30, Part 2801-2900 50-015-001 (2012) Rule 1.3 Supervision and Delegation (PDF)
- Mississippi Board of Nursing, Assisted Self Administration Curriculum, Revised July 23, 2010
