Hi Tara, These are great questions!
#1 In most states, if a parent sends an OTC with their child you can give it as the parent instructs. But for any OTC and emergency medications that the camp stocks you must have a prescriber (MD or nurse practitioner) sign a set of standing orders. Check your state guidance. I see your address is Pennsylvania, if the camp is in Pennsylvania there are guidelines for day camps. See the “State Specific” page on the ACN website: https://www.allianceforcamphealth.org/education-and-resources/state-specific-resources/
#1(b) Regarding Epi in first aid kids, you will need to check your state regulations to determine who can give emergency epi if you are carrying it in first aid kits. If an auto-inject is prescribed for an individual, they can administer it to themselves, but as a health care professional you would need a standing order to administer it. Here is a link to a recent ACN document on epinephrine, to include state regulations on “unassigned” epi. https://www.allianceforcamphealth.org/2021/05/07/epinephrine-at-camp-2021/
#2 Check this link for state regulations: https://www.allianceforcamphealth.org/education-and-resources/state-specific-resources/ I see your address is in Pennsylvania. If your camp is also in Pennsylvania you’ll find links specific regulations for day camps.
You’ll find some good basic information on health services for day camps in the 2020 version of the Camp Nursing: Basics and Beyond textbook by Erceg and Gaslin. https://www.allianceforcamphealth.org/product/basics-of-camp-nursing/
Your questions are good, and it sounds like the camp is lucky to have you seeking good answers.
Mary
