About this information:
This information was prepared by the Legal Advocacy division of the American Diabetes Association® (ADA), a national leader in diabetes information and advocacy. This information covers state rules on diabetes care in Oregon schools, and may not include all the relevant rules and important details. While ADA strives to provide current information, laws and resources can frequently change. This information is not legal advice and professional legal advice should be sought as needed.
1. Does Oregon allow school staff members who are not health care professionals to administer insulin?
Yes. Oregon rules specifically allow nurses to delegate the task of subcutaneous injections: Insulin is injected under the skin. This is called a subcutaneous injection.
The Registered Nurse may delegate tasks of nursing care, including the administration of subcutaneous injectable medications. Or. Admin. R. 851-047-0030.
The Oregon attorney general has also clearly stated that unlicensed assistive personnel may be trained to administer insulin in schools. AG Opinion Statement
2. Does Oregon allow people who are not health care professionals to administer glucagon at school?
Yes. If a licensed health care profession is not immediately available, Oregon law specifically allows unlicensed individuals to administer "lifesaving treatment to persons who are experiencing severe hypoglycemia when other treatment has failed or cannot be initiated." ORS § 433.805. Unlicensed staff providing this care should be trained in the "administration of subcutaneous injection of glucagon for severe hypoglycemia."
3. Does Oregon allow students to self-manage diabetes care at school?
Yes. Students who demonstrate capability and responsibility may self-administer medication at school.
“School policies shall permit a student to administer prescription or nonprescription medication to themselves where the student can demonstrate the ability, developmentally and behaviorally, to self- administer medication and has permission to self-administer medication from a school building administrator, and a prescriber or registered nurse practicing in a district setting;” Or. Admin. R. 581-021-0037
4. Does Oregon allow students to carry diabetes supplies such as needles, insulin, and blood glucose testing devices?
Unclear. Oregon law is silent. However, the Oregon Department of Education provides a process for school districts to approve the self-carry of medication. See Oregon Department of Education, Self-Medication Agreement
Regardless, federal laws may allow capable students to carry diabetes supplies, anytime and anywhere. This may be necessary so that children with diabetes can access education just like any other child.
5. Does Oregon allow students with diabetes to carry cellphones or smart devices for medical purposes?
Unclear. Oregon currently does not have any statewide cellphone restrictions or bans for schools. However, individual schools or districts may create their own policies. If your child is having challenges with cell phone access at school, please contact us at 1-800-DIABETES or email AskADA@diabetes.org. Additional resources can be found on our Safe at School homepage.
Resources:
For more information, see the following resources:
- Oregon Administrative Rule 851-047-0030, Delegation of Special Tasks of Client/Nursing Care
- Oregon Administrative Rule 581-021-0037, Administration of Medication
- Oregon Public Health Division—Oregon Diabetes Program, Training Protocol: Emergency Glucagon Providers
Additional Safe at School resources are available at diabetes.org/safeatschool. To receive information and guidance about a school diabetes care issue, contact 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383) or AskADA@diabetes.org
