What procedure should be followed for medication administration in child care?

The procedure that should be followed for medication administration in child care involves obtaining documented parental permission and having clear medication management policies in place. This is crucial because it ensures that care providers have explicit, written consent from parents or guardians for administering any medication to a child.

Having documented permission helps protect the health and safety of the child, as it provides a clear record of what medications can be administered, the dosage, and the timing. It also ensures legal compliance, as many state regulations require that child care facilities maintain strict protocols regarding medication administration. Additionally, clear medication management policies help guide staff in the proper procedures to follow, including how to handle emergencies, record keeping, and communication with parents.

This rigorous approach contrasts with the other choices, which either lack sufficient safeguards or place undue responsibility on parents. Verbal consent is not reliable enough, as memories can fade or details can be misconstrued. Allowing providers to administer medication at their discretion could lead to risk and mismanagement, while requiring parents to administer medication themselves may not be feasible for all families and could impact a child's wellbeing during child care hours.