Administering

Supply and administration of medicines by staff group (A to G)

2 April 2024Different staff groups have different permissions with respect to medicines supply and administration and it is important to ensure legislation is followed.

Using St Mark’s electrolyte solution

31 January 2024St Mark’s solution is an oral rehydration solution, which maintains fluid balance in conditions like short bowel syndrome. We guide on preparation and use.

Giving intermittent intravenous infusions by gravity in adults

12 July 2023Infusion by gravity is not the preferred method of administration, but may be necessary in some circumstances. Ensure a risk assessment is undertaken.

Managing the risks of using effervescent tablets in children

9 March 2023Careful use of effervescent or soluble tablets to deliver part tablet doses for children and neonates can minimise risks of toxicity or suboptimal therapy.

Assessment and storage of medicines for the self-administration

25 January 2023Suitable medicines must be stored safely and securely in accordance with organisational policy, while still supporting self-administration

Implementing self-administration of medicines

25 January 2023Individuals receiving healthcare should be supported to continue to self-administer existing/new medications unless there are reasons why they are unable to

Responsibilities for the self-administration of medicines

25 January 2023Duties and responsibilities are outlined for both staff and individuals during the process of self-administration of medicines (SAM)

Self-administration of medicines

25 January 2023Self-administering medicines in all care settings and at home can benefit both individuals and organisations; it should be encouraged where safely achievable

Medicine administration by registered and non-registered staff

24 January 2023Administration of medicines needs to be undertaken by appropriately trained healthcare staff operating under a legal governance framework

Using solid oral dosage form antibiotics in children

7 December 2022Crushing or dispersing whole solid dosage forms or opening capsules is an "off-label" use. This includes use for Group A streptococcal infections.

SPS - Specialist Pharmacy Service

NHS