LESSON 1
PREPARATION AND ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATIONS
Section I. BASIC PRINCIPLES OF ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATIONS
1-1.
PREPARATION AND ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATIONS
a. The preparation and administration of medications is a serious responsibility.
Experience has shown that it is best to follow established policies and regulations
pertaining to their administration. Such regulations vary depending on location, but the
principles of safety do not vary. Safety regulations are effective only when they are
understood and readily interpreted by those who use them. When in doubt and/or
before departing from established policy, always consult with a more experienced
person.
b. There are two medication systems presently in use in Army medical facilities.
One is the bulk drug system in which stock supplies are kept and from which individual
dosages are prepared. The other is the unit dose system in which the unit dosage is
prepared (and sometimes packaged) by the pharmacy. A unit dose package contains
the ordered amount of a drug for a single administration in the proper form by the usual
route. It is found in medicine carts. Medicine carts generally have drawers for each
room on the ward, with compartments within the drawers corresponding to the bed
assignment of each patient. The compartment should have a medication slip which
indicates the patient's name, dosage, room and bed number, and required medication.
The information may also be found on a medication Kardex as well as the patient's
chart.
c. As the medical specialist, you must perform a patient care handwash prior to
preparing and administering medications.
1-2.
PRINCIPLES ASSOCIATED WITH PREPARING OR OBTAINING
MEDICATIONS
Although you will not usually be required to administer medications, you must
master the basic rules of administration so that you will be prepared should the
occasion arise.
a. Concentrate fully on the task at hand.
b. Make sure that the information on the medication card/slip is identical to the
physician's written order and the label on the patient's medicine. If not, report it to your
supervisor immediately.
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