Safe/effective use of medications

1. Safe/effective use of medications Policy #: H:5-002.1

2. 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

3. POLICY • Patients and family/caregivers will receive information regarding the safe and effective use of medications, in accordance with applicable home health policies • Ambercarehome 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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)

7. 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

8. RECOMMENDED PIO INTERVENTIONS • Assess meds; effectiveness\duplication\interactions\side effects\regiment adherence • Instruct in administration of and documenting medications and response

9. 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:

10. 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

11. Procedure continued • Answering questions/concerns expressed by the patient and family/caregiver regarding patient’s self-administration of medications

12. 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