1.1 Identify key legislation, policies and guidelines relevant to the administration of medication.
Medication administration in health and social care is regulated by a number of key pieces of legislation, policies, and guidelines.
In terms of legislation, the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014 requires that medication must be managed safely. The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is responsible for enforcing this regulation and ensuring that providers meet the required standards.
The Medicines Act 1968 is also relevant, as it covers the legal framework for the importation, production, sale, supply, and use of medicines. The act sets out the conditions for obtaining and holding a license for manufacturing or supplying medicines, as well as the regulations for the sale of prescription-only medicines.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) provides policies and guidelines on the safe and effective use of medicines in health and social care. NICE guidelines cover various topics, including medication prescribing, dispensing, and administration.
Additionally, the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) has developed medication management guidance, which covers medication administration safety, including the responsibilities of healthcare professionals, the use of medication management systems, and the management of adverse reactions.
Healthcare professionals who work in oncology and other fields where cytotoxic drugs are used should pay particular attention to the Health and Safety Executive’s (HSE) guidance on the safe handling of these medications.
The NHS has developed the “Reducing Harm from Omitted and Delayed Medicines” guidance, which provides best practice advice for preventing medication errors, including safe medication administration and lowering the risk of patient harm.
Other answers in the full document:
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2.1 Compare the responsibilities and level of accountability assigned to those involved in the administration of medication.
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3.1 Describe common types of medication and their uses.
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3.2 Explain the different routes of medicine administration.
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3.3 Describe the common adverse reactions to medication and the appropriate action(s) required in line with agreed ways of working.
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4.1 Explain the importance of the appropriate timing of medication.
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5.2 Explain when and how to report any immediate problems with the administration of medication.
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5.5 Explain how to confirm that the individual takes the medication and does not pass the medication to others.