Five Rights of Medication Lack of knowledge has been implicated in many medication errors; therefore, education about broadly stated goals and practices to safely administer medications is essential.
Medication Administration
Prescription Medication Medication can only be administered with signed permission and clear direction from the guardian. An Individualized Child Care Plan is required for any child with a chronic condition that requires medication (such as asthma or anaphylactic allergies)
Prescription Medication, cont. Forms and instructions for developing and implementing the Individualized Child Care Plan are available from administration. Prescription medication must be in the original prescription bottle. Prescribing physician s name and administration directions must be clearly labeled. It is suggested that families obtain two bottles at their pharmacy so that they do not have to transport medication in a separate container. Prescription medications will only be administered to the child whose name appears on the medication label. Siblings must have a separate container with their name, or have their name on the label of the shared medication.
Prescription Medication, cont Prescription medication will only be administered after a medication authorization form is received from the guardian. Authorization from must be signed by the guardian. Dates, times and dosages must be provided on the form in addition to the container instructions.
Over-The-Counter Medications All over-the-counter medication must be in the original container and labeled with the child s name. FDA and state licensing regulations for administration of medication must be followed. For children under age two (2), over-thecounter medications such as Tylenol and Motrin require a prescription and signature of the licensed physician.
Over-The-Counter Medication, cont. Medication will not be administered to children under the age of two (2) without written authorization and dosage instructions from an unrelated licensed physician. A new authorization by a licensed physician must be submitted for each round of medication. Authorization must be renewed every three (3) days. Parents or guardians must also complete the authorization form.
Over-The-Counter Medication, cont. Children age two (2) and over require written authorization for over-thecounter medication administration from a parent or guardian. A dosage other than indicated on the package instructions requires a written order form an unrelated, licensed physician. Medication may only be distributed for a period of three (3) days without written authorization and dosage instruction from an unrelated licensed physician.
General Medication Administration Guidelines Parent or guardians must administer the initial dose of a new medication and must remain at the facility for 20-30 minutes to observe the child s reaction to any new medication. Parent or guardians must administer morning medication prior to arrival. Families may obtain medication forms to be completed at home in order to avoid the morning rush upon arrival at the center.
General Medication Administration Guidelines, cont. Only full time teachers and administrations may administer medication. Medication is to be stored out of reach of children in locked containers/closets. Medication is to be returned to storage immediately after use. Medication is to be returned to the parent or guardian upon discontinuation.
Five Rights of Medication Administration Right drug Right time Right dose Right route Right patient
Right Drug Ensure the child s record includes: Instructions from the health care provider who prescribed or recommended the medication. The date the prescription was filled. The name of the licensed health care provider. The expiration date of the medication or the period of use for the medications.
Right Drug
Right Dose The manufacturer s instructions should be clearly printed on the original prescription label that details the names and strength of the medication and dose of medication to be administered. Make sure to give the correct amount of medication to equal what is prescribed. Example: If 80mg is ordered and 40mg tablets are present, 2 tablets must be given. Administer medications within prescribed perimeters. Example: insulin. If blood glucose level.administer..units of regular insulin. Any high alert medication such as insulin should be double checked with another staff member prior to administration.
Right Dose
Right Patient Ensure the patient s identity: Use dual identifiers Use both the child s first and last name as well as date of birth. Ensure medications are labeled with the child s first and last names.
Right Patient
Right Route Medications should only be administered by route as prescribed. Oral Injection Rectal Nasal Ocular Topical
Right Route
Right Time Administer medications within 30 minutes of scheduled time. Check medication label for specific administration instructions, such as: With or without food 30 minutes before meals, etc.
Right Time
References Prendergast, P (2013). Edgar L. and Rheta Berkley Child and Family Development Center Staff Handbook. Retrieved from: http://education.umkc.edu/community-centers-and-programs/the-edgar-l-andrheta-a-berkley-child-and-family-development-center/staff/