Medication & Healthcare Activities & Tasks
Individuals who use medication may require support to store and take it correctly.
Independent individuals should be encouraged to do so as this promotes independence and makes mistakes less likely to happen.
Information about the support each person requires will be included in their care plan.
Whenever you are dealing with medication you need to be aware of the main points of agreed procedures about handling medication:
Ordering: The process should be quick and efficient.
Receiving: A list of medication ordered should be checked against that received.
Storing: Controlled drugs (CDs) must be stored in a locked cupboard or might be kept by the individual if self-administering.
- Administering: Ensure the right person receives the right dose of the right medication at the right time.
- Recording: Use the medicine administration record (MAR) which charts the administration of drugs. Make sure the records are clear.
- Transfer: Medication has to stay with the individual as it is their property, so if they are transferred the medication goes with them.
- Disposal: Return unwanted medication to a pharmacy. Care homes must use a licensed waste management company.
Policies & Procedures in relation to Medication
Read and follow your organizations policy and procedures in relation to medication. Tasks like cutting or filing fingernails or toe nails, continence maintenance and assisting with medication can be carried out only if they have been written in the individual’s care or support plan.
The Role of the Care Plan
You always have to obtain the individual’s consent before carrying out healthcare tasks or assisting with medication.
You are not allowed to remind, assist or give individuals their medication or carry out related healthcare tasks unless it is part of your role and until you have completed and satisfactorily passed the appropriate training.
Lets test your knowledge by completing a mini assessment of what you have learnt so far.
Mark this page complete to move onto the assessment.
Good Luck 🙂