Medication Safety: Ensuring Proper Administration

Medication Safety: Ensuring Proper Administration

Memo sent to Care Staff

Since the introduction of PASS, we have been able to manage medication safely with your support. Natalie our Care Co-ordinator has been exceptional in overseeing the Medication Audits, earning the affectionate title of our “Medication Queen.”

We appreciate your diligence in asking questions, especially when you are uncertain about medication. Today, we want to emphasise the importance of administering medication correctly to avoid any legal or safeguarding issues. Our focus is on Covert Medication.

As carers, we are trained never to crush medication before administering it. Under no circumstances should medication be crushed and hidden in food for a client to consume. This practice is considered deceptive and is subject to investigation. Our Medication Safety Policy clearly states the following:

Covert Administration

  1. No Deception: Staff will not mix medicine with food or drink if the intention is to deceive someone who does not want to take the medicine. This is called “covert” administration. The exception is when a medical practitioner states that the person lacks the capacity to consent to treatment and the medicine is essential to their health and wellbeing.
  2. Pharmacist Approval: If the decision is made to give medicine covertly, it is not good practice to crush tablets or open capsules unless a Pharmacist informs you that it is safe to do so.
  3. Swallowing Difficulties: When a client has difficulty swallowing, it may be necessary to crush tablets if there is no liquid alternative. For further information, refer to [http://www.swallowingdifficulties.com/professional/tabs.htm](http://www.swallowingdifficulties.com/professional/tabs.htm).
  4. Documentation: Covert administration or crushing medication must be recorded in the Medication Administration Record (MAR) and Risk Assessment.

If you have any questions regarding this matter, please do not hesitate to contact the Medical Partnerships Care Management team. Your cooperation is crucial in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our clients.

Thank you for your continued support.

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