The Medication Administration Training Course is designed for healthcare professionals, carers, and support staff involved in the preparation and administration of medications in various healthcare settings. This course provides comprehensive knowledge of the principles of safe medication administration, including understanding different routes of administration, dosage calculations, and the legal and ethical considerations involved. Participants will gain practical skills in accurately preparing and administering medications, managing potential side effects, and maintaining accurate records. The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring participants are well-prepared to administer medications safely and effectively.
 
Course Content:
 
Introduction to Medication Administration: Overview of the importance of medication administration in patient care, including the various routes of administration (oral, topical, inhalation, injection, etc.).
Pharmacology Basics: Understanding the basics of pharmacology, including drug classifications, mechanisms of action, and common medications used in healthcare settings.
Dosage Calculations: Instruction on how to perform accurate dosage calculations, including conversions, understanding prescriptions, and adjusting dosages based on patient-specific factors such as age, weight, and renal function.
Preparation and Administration: Step-by-step guidance on the correct techniques for preparing and administering medications via different routes, ensuring accuracy and patient safety.
Aseptic Technique: Emphasising the importance of maintaining aseptic technique during medication preparation and administration to prevent infection and ensure patient safety.
Managing Side Effects and Adverse Reactions: Recognising and managing common side effects and adverse drug reactions, and knowing when and how to seek further medical advice or intervention.
Medication Errors and Prevention: Understanding the causes of medication errors, the impact on patient safety, and strategies to minimise the risk of errors through careful practice and double-checking procedures.
Legal and Ethical Considerations: Overview of the legal and ethical responsibilities associated with medication administration, including obtaining informed consent, accurate documentation, and adherence to local and national guidelines.
Practical Skills Session: Hands-on practice in preparing and administering medications using training models and scenarios, with feedback from experienced instructors to ensure correct technique and confidence in performing the procedure.
 
Learning Outcomes: By the end of the Medication Administration Training Course, participants will be able to:
 
Understand Medication Administration Principles: Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the principles of medication administration, including the different routes of administration and their appropriate use.
Perform Accurate Dosage Calculations: Accurately perform dosage calculations, ensuring correct medication dosages based on patient-specific factors and the prescribed treatment plan.
Prepare and Administer Medications Safely: Confidently prepare and administer medications using the correct techniques, maintaining aseptic conditions, and ensuring patient safety throughout the process.
Recognise and Manage Side Effects: Identify common side effects and adverse reactions to medications, and respond appropriately to manage these effectively and ensure patient wellbeing.
Minimise Medication Errors: Understand the causes of medication errors and implement strategies to minimise the risk of errors, including double-checking procedures and effective communication.
Apply Legal and Ethical Standards: Understand and apply the legal and ethical principles related to medication administration, including patient consent, accurate record-keeping, and adherence to clinical guidelines.
Demonstrate Practical Competence: Confidently apply the knowledge and skills learned through practical training sessions, demonstrating the ability to administer medications safely and effectively in real-life clinical situations.
Maintain Accurate Records: Ensure meticulous documentation of all medication administration, including recording dosages, times, and any observed side effects, to maintain comprehensive patient records.
 
Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be equipped with the essential knowledge and skills required to administer medications safely and effectively in a healthcare setting. They will receive certification, reflecting their competence in medication administration and their readiness to provide high-quality care to patients.