GEN135 Support individuals to take their medication as prescribed

Overview

This standard is about supporting individuals in understanding the effects and benefits of the medication prescribed for them and supporting them to understand the importance of taking their medication as directed. This standard is for all practitioners who are required to advise individuals about their medication and the importance of taking their medication as prescribed. Users of this standard will need to ensure that practice reflects up to date information and policies. Version No 1

Knowledge and Understanding

You will need to know and understand:

1. legal, organisational and policy requirements relevant to your role and the activities being carried out
2. how to adapt communication styles in ways which meet the individual's needs, strengths and capabilities
3. how to check individuals' understanding of the information they are given
4. how to identify any reasons for individuals not wishing to take their prescribed medication
5. how to support the choice and wellbeing of the individual which is appropriate to their needs and preferences
6. how to explore individuals' concerns, reassure them and address any issues they may have
7. the clinical governance arrangements within your organisation, how they operate and your responsibilities in relation to this
8. the effects and benefits of the use of prescribed medication
9. the consequences of not taking the prescribed medication to self and others
10. how to provide advice and guidance relating to the safe storage of drugs and the need to consider safeguarding issues where people in receipt of drugs have parental responsibilities
11. potential side effects of the medication and the risks involved in exceeding the prescribed dose
12. the potential consequences of combining prescribed medication with alcohol and other substances
13. the principle of confidentiality and the implications for your practice
14. how to ensure that the information and/or advice offered is accurate, relevant and complies with national guidelines and local protocols
15. the legal restrictions on driving whilst under the influence of certain medications and your legal obligation to ensure individuals are aware of these
16. the principles of equality, diversity and anti-discriminatory practice and how they are applied
17. the importance of keeping full and accurate records, and how to do so in line with organisational requirements

Performance Criteria

You must be able to do the following:

1. adapt your communication style and the amount of information provided according to the needs and abilities of the individual
2. confirm the medication, the dose, the frequency of dispensing, the route and frequency of administration and the length of course of treatment
3. check that individuals understand why and how their medication should be taken
4. confirm if any significant others should be aware of the medication that has been prescribed
5. explain the likely effects and benefits of the use of their prescribed medication
6. explain the consequences of not taking their prescribed medication
7. identify any reasons for individuals not wishing to take their prescribed medication
8. explore any concerns with individuals and address any issues they may have
9. ensure that individuals are aware of any potential side effects and the risks involved in exceeding the prescribed dose
10. explain any potential consequences of combining prescribed medication with other substances
11. explain to individuals the importance of storing medicines in a safe place and out of reach of children
12. advise individuals of any driving restrictions and that it is illegal to drive under the influence of certain drugs
13. provide individuals with supporting information that can be taken away and consulted later
14. ensure that the information and/or advice offered is accurate, relevant and complies with national guidelines and local protocols

Additional Information

This National Occupational Standard was developed by Skills for Health. This standard replaced AH12 and AH9. This standard links with the following dimension within the NHS Knowledge and Skills Framework (October 2004): Dimension: HWB4 Enablement to address health and wellbeing needs