Administer medication to individuals, and monitor the effects Revision — Gateway Qualifications Limited Occupational Qualification
Understand legislation, policy and procedures relevant to administration of medication, Know about common types of medication and their use, Understand procedures and techniques for the administration of medication, Prepare for the administration of medication, Administer and monitor individuals’ medication
Exam Tips
- In written assignments, explicitly reference key legislation and frameworks, such as the Human Medicines Regulations 2012, Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, and the Care Act 2014, to underpin your answers.
- During practical assessments, verbalise your thought process as you perform each step, e.g., 'I am now checking the MAR chart against the medication label and the individual’s care plan.'
- When discussing monitoring, always link observed effects to expected therapeutic outcomes and potential side effects as outlined in the British National Formulary (BNF) or manufacturer's leaflet.
- If asked about handling disputes or refusals, demonstrate an understanding of person-centred approaches, advocacy, and the legal right to refuse treatment under common law and the Mental Capacity Act.
Common Mistakes
- Believing that crushing or opening capsules is safe without first checking with a pharmacist or the manufacturer's guidance, which can lead to altered drug absorption or toxicity.
- Failing to check the individual's identity against the MAR chart and prescription label using at least two identifiers, leading to potential administration errors.
- Assuming that if an individual refuses medication, the incident does not need to be recorded, when in fact refusal must be documented, reported, and the prescriber informed.
- Confusing 'as required' (PRN) protocols by not checking the minimum interval, maximum daily dose, or the reason for administration, resulting in overdose.
- Neglecting to monitor the individual after administration, missing early signs of adverse reactions or failing to evaluate therapeutic effectiveness.
Key Marking Points
- Award credit for demonstrating accurate application of the '6 R's' (right person, medication, dose, route, time, documentation) and any additional rights such as right reason and right response.
- Award credit for explaining the importance of obtaining valid consent or acting in the individual's best interest under the Mental Capacity Act, and documenting refusals appropriately.
- Award credit for correctly describing the procedure for managing a medication error, including immediate safety actions, reporting, recording, and reviewing care plans.
- Award credit for identifying types of adverse reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis, gastrointestinal disturbances) and outlining appropriate emergency responses, including the use of adrenaline auto-injectors.
- Award credit for accurately interpreting a MAR chart, including codes for refusal, omission, or self-administration, and ensuring information is recorded legibly and promptly.
- Award credit for evidencing understanding of controlled drugs legislation, including secure storage, register keeping, and witnessing requirements during administration.