Medication management is an important aspect of care in Home Care. Ensuring you receive precise medications and dosages at the right time is crucial for your health and well-being. It can also be a complex and time-consuming task as different medications can create a repetitive schedule. Below, we will dive further into the best practices for managing medications at home.
Proper Documentation:
It is important to have a complete and accurate record of all medications, including the name, dosage, frequency, and any step-by-step instructions. This information should be kept in a Medication Administration Record (MAR), which should be updated whenever there are changes your medication regimen.
Medication Administration:
As a consumer you can self-administer medications. If you are paying someone to administer medication, it should be a nurse, and prompting can be done with someone with a medication competency. It is best practice to have nurses who are familiar with your regimens and any potential interactions or side effects.
Medications should be administered at the correct time with the right dosage and monitor your wellbeing post consumption. If someone is administering your medication you will require a medication chart to be signed at each administration. For this reason, unless you have a coordinator that can provide a medication chart, Trilogy Care does not engage in medication administration.
Communication:
Effective communication is essential for safe medication management. It is best to communicate your needs and any issues or changes about your medication regime, with your home care provider, GP and authorised representatives.
Medication Storage:
Medications should be stored in a secure location, away from light and moisture, at the correct temperature. Regularly check the expiration dates of all medications and dispose of any that have expired. For example, return to your local pharmacy, who provide a free and convenient way to dispose of your unwanted medicines responsibly.
Medication Errors:
Medication errors can occur when the wrong medication has been consumed, the wrong dosage, taken at the wrong time. To prevent errors, double-check the MAR and the medication before administering, and report any errors to your home care provider.
Safety Measures:
To ensure the safe handling and administration of medications, it is best to follow instructions from your GP. This may include the use of medication carts, barcode scanning systems, and other technology to help prevent errors.
By following these best practices, your provider can help ensure that you receive the correct medications at the right time and in the right dosage, which can improve your health and well-being.
If you have any further questions, contact Trilogy Care today on 1300 459 190.
