Course Description

Safe Handling and Administration of Medication

Proper medication handling and administration are crucial in preventing errors, ensuring patient safety, and maintaining drug efficacy. Safe practices begin with accurate storage, following temperature and light requirements, and keeping medications in their original, labeled containers. Proper labeling, including expiry dates and usage instructions, helps minimize risks.

Healthcare professionals and caregivers must verify prescriptions, double-check dosages, and ensure correct administration routes—oral, intravenous, topical, or others. Hand hygiene and using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) are essential to prevent contamination and protect both patients and caregivers.

Administering medications requires strict adherence to the "Five Rights": the right patient, the right drug, the right dose, the right time, and the right route. Additionally, monitoring patients for adverse reactions and documenting medication use accurately are key responsibilities.

Disposal of expired or unused medications should follow proper guidelines to prevent environmental contamination and accidental ingestion. Patients should also be educated on medication adherence, potential side effects, and interactions with other drugs or foods.

By implementing these safety measures, healthcare providers and individuals can minimize medication errors, reduce health risks, and enhance treatment effectiveness. Safe medication practices contribute to better patient outcomes and overall public health.