You should administer a student's rescue medication when the student is exhibiting symptoms described in their Seizure Medication Management Order (SMMO), Individual Education Plan (IEP), or Section 504 plan that indicate the need for the medication. Common situations include:

• Seizures lasting longer than 5 minutes.
• Clusters of seizures without regaining consciousness between them.
• Symptoms of a prolonged seizure as indicated in the student's Seizure Action Plan or healthcare provider's orders.
• When a licensed healthcare professional is not immediately available to administer the medication.

The administration must follow specific protocols, including having training and authorization for the school staff, adherence to prescribed dosage and method, and documented in the student's seizure management plan. After administration, emergency services (911) should be called as directed by the student's seizure action plan or school policy. In summary, rescue medication is given during a prolonged seizure or seizure cluster when immediate healthcare is not accessible, following the individualized instructions provided by the student’s healthcare team and school plans.