You find medication in a student's backpack. Which action should you take first to ensure proper authorization?

• A. Call emergency services immediately.
• B. Notify the nurse/admin to confirm authorization.
• C. Dispose of the medication.
• D. Return the medication to the student.

Answer: (B)

When a medication is found, the first priority is to involve the right medical staff to confirm authorization and proper handling. Notifying the school nurse or administrator begins the official process: they verify that the medication is legally allowed to be in the student’s possession, ensure there is a current medical order or plan, and guide you on proper storage, administration, and documentation. This keeps everyone safe, follows district policy, and protects you from handling or disposing of meds improperly.

If there’s an immediate medical emergency, that requires urgent action, but without an emergency, contacting the nurse or administrator first is the correct initial step. Disposing of the medication or returning it to the student, or calling emergency services right away without confirmation, could violate procedures and create risk or legal issues. In the meantime, keep the medication secure and document that you found it, awaiting the nurse’s guidance.