Unit 4222-616 Administer medication to individuals, and monitor the effects (ASM 34)

Outcome 2 Know about common types of medication and their use

1. describe common types of medication including their effects and potential side effects

Below are outlined 3 types of common medications.

Analgesics: i.e. Codeine, used for pain relief, side effects can be light-headedness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, and sedation. Codeine can also cause allergic reactions, symptoms of which include constipation, abdominal pain, rash and itching.

Antibiotics: i.e. Amoxicillin, a penicillin based antibiotic which fights bacteria in your body. It can only be taken if you are not allergic to Penicillin and do not have
There should also be the dose and quantity included along with the frequency and duration of taking. It may also include the storage instructions and delivery method for that drug.

Outcome 5 Administer and monitor individuals’ medication

5. explain why it may be necessary to confirm that the individual actually takes the medication and does not pass the medication to others

If you are not familiar with the service user it is important to check that they are the intended individual in order that no medication errors occur. This can be done by asking verbally, or by the individuals chosen communication, checking some photographic ID, or asking family or an advocate of the individual if they are unable to confirm for themselves. It is also important to check that the medication itself is labelled correctly when received from the pharmacy by confirming the name, address, and date of birth are the same as the individual the drugs are being administered to. Some drugs could be used for addictive purposes if used by someone wishing to abuse its use if they are not the intended recipient. Also it may be dangerous if an individual, to whom the medication has not been prescribed, mistakenly is issued that medication. It could have devastating effects even be fatal in some circumstances. This is why it is necessary that