A Practical Guide for Families and Carers
Administering medication is a responsibility many of us take on when caring for a loved one. Whether you’re supporting an older family member, someone with a long-term condition, or a person recovering from illness, understanding how to administer medication safely is essential. But have you ever wondered why some medications can’t be taken orally? Or what administering medication really involves?
In this guide, we’ll explain what administering medication means, why some medicines aren’t suitable for oral use, and how you can ensure safe and effective medication management at home.
What Does Administering Medication Mean?
Administering medication means giving a prescribed drug to a person in the correct way, at the right time, and in the right amount. This can be done by a healthcare professional, a trained carer, a family member, or even by the person themselves if they’re able. The process includes:
- Checking the prescription and dosage
- Preparing the medication (e.g., measuring liquids, ensuring tablets are intact)
- Giving the medication via the correct administration method (e.g., orally, topically, or by injection)
- Recording that the medication has been given
In the UK, national guidelines and legislation—such as the Medicines Act 1968 and Regulation 12 of the Health and Social Care Act—set out strict rules to ensure medication is given safely. These rules help prevent errors and protect both the person receiving the medication and the person giving it.
Why Are Some Medications Not Able to Be Administered Orally?
While oral medication (taken by mouth) is the most common and convenient route, not all medicines can be given this way. Here’s why:
- Destruction by Stomach Acid or Enzymes
Some drugs are broken down by stomach acid or digestive enzymes before they can be absorbed into the bloodstream. For example, insulin—a hormone used to manage diabetes—would be destroyed in the stomach if taken orally. That’s why it’s usually given as an injection.
- Poor Absorption in the Digestive Tract
Certain medications are not absorbed well in the gut. This means they wouldn’t reach the bloodstream in high enough concentrations to be effective. Some antibiotics and pain relief medications fall into this category.
- Irritation or Damage to the Digestive System
Some drugs, like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can irritate or damage the lining of the stomach and intestines if taken orally. In these cases, alternative routes—such as suppositories, injections, or topical creams—are used to avoid harm.
- Need for Rapid or Controlled Action
In emergencies, such as severe allergic reactions or heart attacks, medications need to act quickly. Oral drugs take time to be absorbed, so injections or intravenous (IV) routes are used instead. Conversely, some drugs need to be released slowly over time, which isn’t always possible with oral forms.
- Unconsciousness or Swallowing Difficulties
People who are unconscious, have severe nausea, or struggle to swallow (e.g., after a stroke) can’t take oral medication. In these cases, drugs may be given rectally, through a feeding tube, or via injection.
Understanding the 7 Rs of Safe Medication Administration
To ensure medication is given safely, always follow the 7 Rs:
- Right person: Always check the person’s identity.
- Right medication: Confirm the drug name and strength.
- Right dose: Measure liquids carefully; don’t guess.
- Right route: Give the medication as prescribed (e.g., oral, topical, injection).
- Right time: Stick to the scheduled times.
- Right reason: Confirm the person is receiving the medication for the appropriate, intended reason.
- Right documentation: Record each dose given.
How to Administer Medication Safely at Home
If you’re responsible for administering medication at home, follow these best practices to keep your loved one safe:
Store Medication Correctly
Keep medicines in a cool, dry place, away from children and pets. Some medications, like insulin, need to be refrigerated. Always check the label for storage instructions.
Prepare Medication Properly
- If a tablet needs to be crushed or a capsule opened, check with a pharmacist first—some medications must never be crushed.
- Shake liquid medications well before measuring.
- Use the correct measuring device (e.g., oral syringe, not a kitchen spoon).
Monitor for Side Effects
Keep an eye out for any unusual reactions, such as rashes, dizziness, or nausea. If you’re worried, contact a GP or pharmacist for advice.
Keep Accurate Records
Use a medication administration record (MAR) to log each dose. This helps track what’s been given and when, reducing the risk of missed or double doses.
What to Do If You’re Unsure
It’s always okay to pause and ask for help. If you’re not sure how to administer medication safely, or if your loved one reacts unexpectedly, contact:
- Your GP or practice nurse
- A pharmacist
- NHS 111 (for non-emergency advice)
- 999 (in an emergency)
How Comfort Care At Home Can Help
At Comfort Care At Home, our trained carers are experienced in administering medication safely and compassionately. We can support you and your loved one with:
- Medication reminders and administration
- Monitoring for side effects
- Liaising with healthcare professionals
- Providing peace of mind for families
If you’d like to find out more about how we can help, get in touch for a free consultation.
Final Thoughts
Administering medication safely is a vital part of caring for someone at home. Understanding why some medications can’t be taken orally—and knowing how to give drugs correctly—helps ensure your loved one gets the treatment they need without unnecessary risk.
By following best practices and seeking support when needed, you can provide care with confidence and peace of mind.
Need more guidance? Contact us today to discuss how we can support you and your family with safe, compassionate care in the comfort of your loved one’s home.
