1.1 Identify current legislation, guidelines, policies and protocols relevant to the administration of medication
The current legislation, guidelines, policies, and protocols significant to the administration of medication within adult care settings are key frameworks that ensure safety and efficacy within the health and social care sector.
Main Legislative Acts:
The basis of medication administration law is encapsulated within The Medicines Act 1968. This Act governs the control and regulation of medications by outlining how they should be prescribed and distributed (Medicines & Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency [MHRA], 2021). It underlines that only those qualified are permitted to prescribe certain types of drugs, ensuring a high standard of practice.
Following closely is The Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, which addresses categories or schedules of drugs especially relevant in a care setting due to their potential for abuse (National Archives, n.d.). It places medications under controlled status, thus stipulating stringent handling and recording procedures.
Guidelines and Protocols:
Beyond legal frameworks lie the guidelines which provide finer procedural detail. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) offers comprehensive guidance on how medications should be administered within healthcare settings through NICE Guideline 237 “Managing medicines for adults receiving social care in the community” (2020), which sheds light on assessments before medication provision, robust record-keeping practices as well as monitoring side effects after dispensation.
Internal Policies:
Each care facility also typically crafts its own internal policies grounded in these laws. Such policies usually detail specifics like double-checking identities before administering medicine. The importance here lies not just with adherence but proactive management across staff through regular training updates to ensure all practitioners understand their role within this regulated framework.
Whether considering primary statutes like The Medicines Act or more specific directives from entities such as NICE, it’s clear these layers collectively establish a rigorous environment around drug administration—a critical
Other answers in the full document:
- 2.1 Describe common types of medication including their effects and potential side effects
- 2.2 Identify medication which demands specific physiological measurements
- 2.3 Describe the common adverse reactions to medication, how each can be recognised and the appropriate actions required
- 2.4 Explain the different routes of medicine administration
- 3.1 Explain the types, purpose and function of materials and equipment needed for the administration of medication via the different routes
- 3.2 Identify the required information from prescriptions/medication administration record
- 3.3 Explain the actions to be taken if an individual does not consent to prescribed medication
- 3.4 Explain ways to ensure appropriate timing of the medication