m. Check the container label for the expiration date. Dispose of "expired"
medications IAW local SOP.
1-3.
PRINCIPLES ASSOCIATED WITH IDENTIFYING THE PATIENT
a. Positively identify the patient immediately prior to administering any
medication.
b. Check his identaband or ask him to state his name. Patients have been
known to answer to names other than their own.
1-4.
PRINCIPLES ASSOCIATED WITH ADMINISTERING MEDICATIONS
a. Administer only the medication that you prepared or removed from the
medicine cart.
b. Be familiar with the potential effects (good and bad) of any medication you
administer. If in doubt, check with a nurse, physician, or pharmacist.
c. Administer medication only by the route specified on the doctor's orders. If
the route is not specified or if you are in doubt about the correct route of administration
of the medication, check with a nurse, physician, or pharmacist.
d. Administer the medication at the time specified on the doctor's orders.
e. Assist weak or helpless patients in taking medications as necessary.
f. Remain with the patient until he takes the medication. If the patient refuses
his medication, inform your supervisor and document the incident IAW local SOP.
1-5.
PRINCIPLES ASSOCIATED WITH MONITORING THE PATIENT
All patients must be observed after the medication is administered. The type and
duration of the observation will vary with the patient and the type of medication. The
patient should be observed for any specific reaction or complication that is expected
from a certain medication. For example, diarrhea could be a reaction to the
administration of ampicillin. If you are in doubt, ask the nurse, physician, or supervisor.
If the patient has an adverse reaction to a medication, immediately inform the nurse or
physician on duty. You will also observe for effectiveness of the medication, especially
those given for pain relief.
MD0552
1-4