Administration Of Medication Case Study

Administration Of Medication
Procedure
1.

Procedure Number

Version Nos:

WCDHB-PN-0037

7

Purpose
This Procedure is performed as a means of ensuring the safe administration of therapeutic medication to patients in accordance with all legislative and regulatory requirements.

2.

Application
This Procedure is to be followed by all nursing staff throughout the West Coast District Health
Board (WCDHB).

3.

Definitions
For the purposes of this Procedure:

Prescribing medications is the responsibility of the Doctor;
Dispensing medications is the role of the Pharmacist;
Administration of medications is undertaken by nurses.
4.

Staff Authorised To Perform Procedure
This Procedure shall be performed by a:

5.

6.

i)

Registered nurse(RN)/midwife;
Uncontrolled Document – West Coast District Health Board

1

Administration Of Medication
Procedure

Procedure Number

Version Nos:

WCDHB-PN-0037

7

2.00

Administration Of Oral Medications (Tablets, Pills, Capsules and Liquid
Medications

2.01

Review written prescription for the medication

2.02

Prepare medication as per the written prescription (for liquids, invert bottle to ensure mixing) 2.03

Have the medication checked as per the requirements of the WCDHB Medication
Policy.

2.04

Correctly identify patient.

2.05

Check for any notification of medication allergies/adverse reactions.

2.06

Explain Procedure to patient.

2.07

Obtain informed consent from patient. If the patient refuses to give consent, then the nurse is required to:
(a)
notify the doctor who prescribed the medication;
(b)
document the outcome.

2.08

Remain with patient until patient swallows medication.

2.09

Immediately after administering the medication, document the administration and
8.12

Discard used disposable equipment appropriately.

8.13

Document the result of the Procedure in the patient’s clinical record.

Precautions And Considerations
Review written prescription for the medication prior to administration
Have the medication checked as per the requirements of the WCDHB Medication Policy
Check for any notification of medication allergies/adverse reactions prior to administration If the patient starts to exhibit side effect or problems after the administration of the medication, the prescribing doctor is to be notified immediately.

8.

References
Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights (1995)
Health Practitioners Competence Assurance ACT 2003
New Zealand Nursing Council Code of Conduct for Nurses and Midwives (1995)
Health Act (1956)
Hospitals Act (1957)
Hospitals Regulations (1993)
Medicines Act (1981)
Medicines Regulations (1984)
Uncontrolled Document – West Coast District Health Board

6

Administration Of Medication