All records relating to the use of medicines are legal records and must be kept for a minimum of 3 years to comply with The Data Protection Act.
Every incidence of assistance and administration of medication, must be recorded on a Medication Administration Record (MAR).
Individual’s will also have daily records that record the daily actions of the care worker and any observations made about the individual.
Medication records should be completed in black ink then both signed and dated.
Medication Administration Record (MAR)
Typically a medication record will cover two to four weeks and will have blank spaces to record medication for morning, lunch, afternoon and evening. The purpose of the MAR sheet is to record:
You should NEVER rely on your memory.
Record details immediately.
Sign immediately.
MAR Sheet
The MAR sheet will also record every incidence of assistance the individual has received and details about the support given to include:
- Supervision of the individual taking medication.
- Opening a bottle or pack at the individual’s request.
- The time(s) the person took medication.
- How the medicine was taken, for example, swallowed or applied.
- A code to show whether you supervised, gave prompts or dispensed medication and your initials.
If you see:
- Any gaps on the medication sheet
- Medication not given
- Any irregularities
You must report these to your manager straight away.
Medication Administration Records (MARs) can vary from one organisation to another.
You will need to be shown your organisation’s MARs. This will include the individual’s daily record.
You can only use a MAR after you have demonstrated your skills and been signed off as competent.
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Class Sessions
1- 1. Different types of medication
2- 2. Different ways medication can be administered
3- 3. Commonly used medications, what they are used for and common possible side effects
4- 4. Changes to an individual’s wellbeing that may indicate an adverse reaction to medication
5- 5. Legal classifications for medication and drugs
6- 6. Roles and responsibilities for prescribing and dispensing medication
7- 7. Roles and responsibilities supporting someone with medication in your organisation
8- 8. Materials and equipment that can assist in administering medication
9- 9. Ordering, receiving and collecting medication
10- 10. Storing medication safely
11- 11. Principles in supporting the use of medication
12- 12. Using risk assessments to promote independence in managing medication
13- 13. Addressing ethical issues that may arise over the use of medication
14- 14. Promoting hygiene, safety, dignity and active participation
15- 15. Strategies to ensure medication is used correctly
16- 16. Reporting medication usage problems
17- 17. How to record use of medication and any changes
18- 18. Legislation that governs the use of medication in social care
19- 19. Policies, procedures and ways of working