Best Practices for Medication Administration

Sep 11, 2024

Medication Administration Best Practices

Checking Medication Orders

  • Verify the Medication Administration Record (MAR) against the provider's order.
  • Compare the medication label with the MAR twice; perform a third check at the bedside.
  • Check the expiration date of the medication.

The Six Rights of Medication Administration

  1. Right medication
  2. Right dose
  3. Right patient
  4. Right route
  5. Right time
  6. Right documentation
  • See the video skill "Ensuring the Six Rights of Medication Administration" for details.

Patient Interaction

  • Introduce yourself and identify the patient using two identifiers.
  • Patients may ask questions or provide information about their medications.

Handling Refusals and Allergies

  • Assess reasons for refusal if a patient chooses not to take medication.
  • Check for documented allergies; if a new allergy is discovered, document it and notify the healthcare provider.
  • Place an allergy ID band on the patient if required.

Managing Side Effects

  • Assess if the patient is describing side effects or adverse reactions.
  • If possible, suggest taking medication with food or adjusting the timing.
  • Request dosage adjustments from providers if side effects are dose-dependent.

Addressing Patient Concerns About Medication Appearance

  • Explain generic substitutions may differ in appearance from brand-name drugs.
  • Verify the order if there's confusion due to look-alike or sound-alike medication names.

Handling PRN (As Needed) Medication Requests

  • Use clinical judgment to determine if PRN medication is necessary.
  • Familiarize yourself with the medication's onset, duration, peak time, and plateau.

Documentation

  • Document medication administration in the patient's MAR.
  • Include details if medication is refused or not given, and notify the healthcare provider as needed.
  • Record the reason for holding medication and notify if necessary.

Follow-Up Care

  • Monitor the patient's response post-medication.
  • Evaluate pain levels and notify the healthcare provider if medication is ineffective or refused.
  • Adjustments to dosage or medication may be necessary based on response.