Administering medication is an important part of caring for older adults, whether it’s at home, in a care home or a hospital. Depending on the person’s needs, support with medication might come from healthcare professionals or family members. No matter who’s giving it, it’s really important that medication is given safely, correctly, and in line with the right guidelines.
Understanding the importance of medication administration
If medication isn’t given correctly, it can cause side effects, make treatment less effective or even lead to serious health problems. That’s why it’s important for anyone giving medication care – whether that’s a care professional or a family member—to follow best practices and keep your loved one safe and well.
The six rights of medication administration
To make things easier, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has a helpful guide called the ‘six rights’ of medication administration. These are simple checks that help make sure medication is given safely and correctly every time.
Right person
Make sure the medication is for the right person. If you’re caring for more than one person, always take a moment to double-check names and any instructions on the label.
Right medication
Check the label and make sure you’re giving the right medicine. If anything looks different or unexpected, it’s always okay to pause and ask a pharmacist or healthcare professional.
Right dose
Give the exact amount that’s been prescribed. Too much or too little can cause problems, so use the right tools (like a pill organiser or measuring spoon) to help get it right.
Right time
Stick to the schedule. Some medications need to be taken at specific times of day, so check when the last dose was given and make sure you’re not giving it too soon or too late.
Right route
Medications can be taken in different ways—some are swallowed, some are topical and others may be injected. Always check how it should be given and follow the instructions carefully.
Right to decline
Everyone has the right to refuse medication, even if you think they need it. It’s important to respect their choice and make a note of what they’ve refused and why. If you’re worried, speak to a health professional for advice.
Additional rights to remember
Some experts suggest adding a few more rights to the original six to make things even safer when giving medication. These extra steps are the extra steps to consider.
Right patient education
It really helps if your loved one understands what each medication is for and how it helps them. Take time to chat with them about what they’re taking and why—even just a little bit of information can help them feel more in control of their care.
Right documentation
If more than one person is involved in giving medication, keeping clear notes is crucial. Write down when a medication was given, if any doses were missed or refused and whether there were any side effects. This keeps everyone on the same page and helps avoid any confusion.
Right assessment
Before giving a medication, take a moment to make sure it’s still needed. If your loved one seems unwell or their condition has changed, it’s okay to pause and ask for medical advice first—especially if something doesn’t feel quite right.
Right evaluation
Keep an eye on whether the medication is doing what it’s meant to do. If you notice it’s not helping or your loved one is feeling worse, it might be time for a review. Regular check-ins with the GP or pharmacist can make sure the medication plan is still working well.
Safe medication administration with Comfort Care At Home
At Comfort Care At Home, our trained care professionals follow strict medication protocols to ensure your loved one receives their medication safely and on time. We work closely with healthcare providers, families and pharmacists to manage medication effectively, ensuring peace of mind for you and your loved one.
If you need professional support with medication administration for a loved one, contact us for a free consultation. Our dedicated team is here to provide safe, reliable and compassionate care in the comfort of your loved one’s home.