1. Alzheimer Scotland Medication

2. Our position: - We aim to support service users to be as independent as possible in taking medication Where the person requires more assistance we aim to be as supportive as possible

3. Support Workers can help service users in the following categories: - Level A Level B Level C Level D (requires ‘special tasks‘ can do only after ‘special training’) Medication

4. Support Workers have the right to ask for further guidance on administering medication if they feel it is unsafe or are unsure of procedures The service user’s Support Plan will include instruction on medication. Assistance cannot be given if it is not mentioned in the Plan Medication

5. Tablets Capsules Liquid/Suspension (bottles or pre-measured doses) Dispersible Creams/ointments Ear/eyedrops Types of Medication

6. Safe Management of Medication Medicines can only be dispensed from the original containers supplied by the pharmacist (the labels must be legible!) Medication can only be given to the person it is prescribed for Do not give ‘over the counter’ remedies to level C service users

7. Safe Management of Medication Crushing medicines Covert Administration Controlled Drugs Injections PRN medication Disposing of medicines

8. Safe Management of Medication Refusal to take medication Mistakes Creams & ointments (non- prescribed) Buying Medication Ordering & collecting prescriptions

9. Hygiene & Storage Procedures Good handwashing before and after assisting Do not handle tablets Bottles, spoons, measuring cups must be kept clean

10. Hygiene & Storage Procedures Medicines must be stored out of reach of children & pets (locked away in daycare) Medicines must be stored according to pharmacy advice e.g. cool place

11. Reporting Medication Concerns Contact the carer/line manager immediately if you have any concerns such as: - Difficulty swallowing tablets Any suspected side effects (vomiting, diarrhoea especially if on new medication) ‘Stockpiling’ medication

12. Miscellaneous Aromatherapy – do not do this with service users without seeking advice from your line manager first Advice - do not give advice to service users about what they should take or buy from the pharmacist

13. Medication Forms Medication Permission Form Drug Record Form Medication Disposal Form