Introduction to administering medicines

Now that we have looked at the first three R’s of safe medication administration to residents, we need to consider how to ensure the right medicine and right dose is given at the right time.

As a care worker, you will need to be competent in administering medicines from different types of packaging with specific instructions for administration. You must be able to identify and report problems you encounter when it comes to the drug round and ensure that problems are resolved and monitored.

By the end of this week you should be able to:

1. State the legislation and guidance around residents’ health records and confidentiality

2. Explain the importance of record keeping in relation to medicines

3. Describe the different types of monitored-dosage-systems (MDS) available and the advantages and disadvantages associated with their use

4. Explain why some medicines have specific instructions, e.g. with/ after food, when required

5. Describe how to measure liquids and creams

6. Cite potential problems that can arise when administering medicines

7. Describe the reporting process should problems arise when administering medicines

8. Describe the importance of medicines review and care planning – assess, monitor & administer