Medication Administration and Safety

Risk of Misreading Medications:
- A significant concern is that many meditators misinterpret medication instructions, which can lead to serious errors.
- Using tall man lettering helps to minimize the chances of mistakes in reading medication names.
Classification of Medications:
- Medications are categorized into classes based on their effects or the symptoms they treat.
- Understanding the class is essential in providing proper patient education.

Type: Prednisone is classified as a steroid medication.
Function:
- It reduces inflammation and decreases swelling in patients.
Patient Education:
- Clinicians should inform patients about potential side effects, which can include mild nausea to more serious reactions.
- It is vital to guide patients on appropriate administration techniques (e.g., placing medication inside the cheek to dissolve).

Medications can be prescribed in varying concentrations, which can be expressed in percentages.
For example, insulin can be drawn from a designated bottle just like any other medication, ensuring accuracy in dosage.

Floor Stock:
- Reference to the inventory of medications available in healthcare systems, such as insulin.
Bar Pad System:
- Some facilities utilize a bar pad system for scanning medications; however, not all facilities implement this technology.
Order Documentation:
- Importance of written orders, especially when receiving telephonic or verbal orders.
- Upon receiving an order, there is a protocol to follow:
- Read Back Confirmation: It is crucial to read back the order to the provider to ensure accuracy.
- Data Entry: The order must be entered into the computer system.
- Physician Co-signing: Typically, the physician must cosign the order within 24 hours.

Pharmacists are responsible for verifying prescriptions after orders are placed.
Delegation Rules:
- It is prohibited to delegate any portion of medication administration to Unlicensed Assistive Personnel (UAP), enhancing patient safety.

Special Syringe Designs:
- Some manufacturers design syringes to prevent accidental connection to IV systems unless specifically intended to, which reduces risk of error.
Crushing and Administering Medications:
- Caution is advised when crushing medications, as seen when mixing with applesauce to enhance intake.
- Special considerations should be given to older adults who may require focused attention to medication schedules.

Visual Cues:
- Some hospitals implement visual signs (like stop signs) to alert staff to minimize distractions during critical tasks like medication dispensing.
Ensuring a Distraction-Free Environment:
- Creating an organized and distraction-free environment is key to proper medication administration.
New Orders:
- Healthcare providers should be responsive and attentive to any new medication orders and verify their accurate execution, contributing to effective patient care.