Policy #: H:

 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

 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

 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

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

 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)

 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

 Assess meds; effectiveness\duplication\interactions\side effects\regiment adherence  Instruct in administration of and documenting medications and response

 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:

 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

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

 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