Medication Administration Best Practices - Online Inservice

Course overview

The administration of a medication is usually considered a chief responsibility of the nurse. Physicians, physician’s assistants, nurse practitioners, and nurses are generally trained and authorized to administer medications, but other medical disciplines, such as the certified medication aide/med tech may have a limited responsibility in this area, as well. In some circumstances, unlicensed personnel may be trained and authorized to administer medications in residential care settings such as assisted living residences. Laws regarding medication administration vary from state to state. The practice of administering medication involves providing the patient with a substance prescribed and intended for the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of a medical illness or condition. The act of medication administration involves the actual and complete conveyance of the substance to the patient. There is a wide set of practices necessary to achieve safe and effective outcomes of medication administration. Knowledge of the best practices of drug administration techniques is of utmost importance to ensure the safe delivery of the medication to the patient.