AN 15: Assist in the administration of medication

1. Know the current legislation, guidelines and policies relevant to the administration of medication

• 1.1 Identify the current national legislation and guidelines relevant to the administration of medication
• 1.2 Outline the organisational policies for the management and administration of medication

2. Understand own role in assisting in the administration of medication

• 2.1 Describe own responsibilities and accountability in relation to assisting with the administration of medication
• 2.2 Explain the importance of working under the direction of a qualified health professional when assisting with the administration of medication
• 2.3 Explain the importance of working within own area of competence and seeking advice when faced with situations outside own area of competence

3. Understand the requirements and procedures for assisting in the administration of medication

• 3.1 Explain the purpose and significance of the information which should be provided on the label of a medication
• 3.2 Describe the different routes for the administration of medication
• 3.3 Describe the type, purpose and function of materials and equipment needed for the administration of medication within own area of responsibility
• 3.4 Describe the various aids which can be used to help individuals take their medication
• 3.5 Explain the importance of applying standard precautions for infection control and the potential consequences of poor practice
• 3.6 Explain why medication should only be administered against the individual’s medication administration record and in a way which is consistent with the prescriber’s advice

4. Understand the requirements and procedures for ensuring an individual’s safety

• 4.1 Explain the importance of identifying the individual for whom the medications are prescribed
• 4.2 Explain the importance of confirming the medication against the prescription/protocol with the person leading the administration before administering it

5. Be able to prepare for the administration of medication

• 5.1 Obtain or confirm valid consent for the administration of medication
• 5.2 Apply standard precautions for infection control
• 5.3 Select, check and prepare the medication according to the medication administration record or medication information leaflet
• 5.4 Explain the importance of referring confusing or incomplete instructions back to the person leading the administration or the pharmacist
• 5.5 Check and confirm the identity of the individual who is to receive the medication with the person leading the activity and with the individual themselves before the medication is administered

6. Be able to assist in the administration of medication

• 6.1 Contribute to administering the medication to the individual using the correct technique and at the prescribed time according to the care plan
• 6.2 Assist the individual to be as self-managing as possible
• 6.3 Explain the importance of seeking help and advice from a relevant member of staff if the individual will not or cannot take the medication
• 6.4 Monitor the individual’s condition throughout the administration process
• 6.5 Explain the types of adverse effects that may occur and the action to take if they do
• 6.6 Check and confirm that the individual has taken the medication and does not pass medication to others

7. Be able to contribute to the management of medications and administration records

• 7.1 Explain the importance of keeping accurate and up-to date records of the administration of medication
• 7.2 Contribute to completing the necessary records relating to the administration of medications legibly, accurately and completely.
• 7.3 Maintain the security of medication and related records throughout the administration process and return them to the correct place for storage
• 7.4 Maintain the confidentiality of information relating to the individual at all times
• 7.5 Check the stock level of medications and take action to obtain new stocks when required