1. Does North Dakota allow school staff members who are not health care professionals to administer insulin?
Yes. The state board of nursing clarifies that “an insulin injection may be delegated by the licensed nurse” and “school staff [can] administer an insulin injection.” School Nursing Medication Administration FAQ (updated 2014). A nurse should teach a specific staff member on how to administer insulin to a specific student, and that staff member may need to be on the Unlicensed Assistive Person registry. See N.D. Cent. Code § 43-12.1-02(9) and NDAC § 54-07-08-01.
2. Does North Dakota allow school staff members who are not health care professionals to administer glucagon?
Yes. State law allows unlicensed people to administer nursing care in “cases of emergency or disaster.” N.D. Cent. Code § 43-12.1-04 (1). Guidance from the state board of nursing makes clear that “[i]n an emergency, school personnel could administer a Glucagon® injection.” School Nursing Medication Administration FAQ (2014).
3. Does North Dakota allow students to self-manage diabetes at school, anytime and anywhere?
Yes. for self-management in general. Guidance from state agencies states that some students may be able to self-administer insulin and self-manage blood glucose testing. Health Guidelines for North Dakota Schools.
4. Does North Dakota allow students to carry diabetes supplies such as needles, insulin, and blood glucose testing devices?
Yes. Guidance from state agencies states that some students may self-carry diabetes care supplies such as glucagon and glucose meters. Health Guidelines for North Dakota Schools. State law does not specifically say that students have the right to carry their supplies and food anytime, anywhere, but there are no barriers, either. Additionally, 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.
Resources:
For more information, see the following helpful resources:
- North Dakota Nurse Practice Act, N.D. Cent. Code §§ 43-12.1-02(9) (Definitions – unlicensed assistive person); 43-12.1-03 (License or registration required, unlicensed assistive person); 43-12.1-04 (Persons exempt from provisions of chapter).
- North Dakota Administrative Rules and Regulations, NDAC § 54-07-08-01 (Specific delegation of medication administration).
- North Dakota Board of Nursing, “School Nursing Medication Administration FAQ” (2014).
- ND Dep’t of Health and ND Dep’t of Public Instruction, “Health Guidelines for North Dakota Schools,” (2010).
- North Dakota Board of Nursing, Initial UAP/ Technician Registry Application, SFN 50422 (Jan. 2015).