SAFE/EFFECTIVE USE OF

MEDICATIONSPolicy #: H:5-002.1

PURPOSE To provide guidelines for the

instruction of patients and family/caregivers regarding the safe, effective use of medication

To promote correct administration of medications by patients and family/caregivers

POLICY Patients and family/caregivers will receive

information regarding the safe and effective use of medications, in accordance with applicable home health policies

Ambercare home health will encourage patient and family/caregiver participation in his/her own home health care and will explain the correct administration of medications by the patient or family care/giver, as ordered by the attending physician (or other authorized licensed independent practitioner) or purchased over the counter. Teaching will also include the safe storage of medications

PROCEDURE As part of the comprehensive assessment, the patient and family/caregiver will be assessed as to their knowledge and skill required for safe and effective use of medications

PROCEDURE CONTINUED The components of the medication assessment used to determine patient and family/caregiver knowledge and skill related to medication administration will include the following

PROCEDURE CONTINUED Name, dosage, route, duration, time,

and usage of medication, intended use as well as expected actions of drug therapy

Preparation, self-administration, and use of medication, including over-the-counter products

Safeguards against contamination Compounding and administration

techniques (if applicable)

PROCEDURE CONTINUED Significant side effects, adverse

reactions/interactions (including drug-to-drug and drug-food interactions) as well as contraindications and how to avoid and respond to such factors

Self-monitoring of drug therapy Proper storage and expiration dating of

medications Refill information Actions to take in the event of a missed dose Proper disposal of unused or expired

medications, especially controlled substances/schedule II drugs

RECOMMENDED PIO INTERVENTIONS Assess meds; effectiveness\duplication\

interactions\side effects\regiment adherence

Instruct in administration of and documenting medications and response

PROCEDURE CONTINUED Using the medication information, the clinician will review the key points required, based on patient knowledge and skills, as well as identified needs. This may include:

PROCEDURE CONTINUED Teaching the patient the purpose and

side effects of medications and the patient’s role in identifying and preventing medication errors

Assisting the patient in setting up medications for the first time

Assessing the patient’s ability to self-administer medications correctly, and document the patient’s response and comprehension

PROCEDURE CONTINUED Answering questions/concerns expressed by the patient and family/caregiver regarding patient’s self-administration of medications

PROCEDURE CONTINUED Instructing the patient and family/caregiver

regarding safe storage of medications Medications should be stored separately from

other poisonous drugs and chemicals Medications should be kept out of the reach of

children, pets and confused or disoriented patients The nurse will plan with the patient and

family/caregiver for the safe, therapeutic storage of drugs during the assessment process

Drugs requiring refrigeration should be stored inside the refrigerator

Urine testing and other diagnostic materials should be stored away from all medications, heat, light, and moisture