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7

Medication Assistance (Reminders Only)

This module covers the strict boundary of medication assistance: reminding, organising, and tracking - never prescribing, adjusting, or administering. Understanding this boundary is essential for safe practice.

3-4 hours CORE - Scope-of-Practice-Critical Not Started

Learning Objectives

1
Clearly state the boundary: remind and assist with organisation, never prescribe or adjust doses
2
Create and maintain a written medication list
3
Set up a simple pill organisation system using locally available materials
4
Establish a daily medication reminder routine
5
Identify and report at least 5 signs of medication problems
6
Explain what to do if a dose is missed
7
Describe safe medication storage

Educational content only. This training material is for informational purposes. Always follow your employer's specific protocols and consult qualified medical professionals for clinical guidance.

Module 7 Learning Material

The Critical Boundary

This is the most important scope-of-practice boundary in the entire programme:

You REMIND and ASSIST with organisation. You do NOT prescribe, adjust doses, crush tablets, or give injections.

If a family member asks you to "just give an extra tablet" or "skip today's dose" - the answer is always no. Only the prescribing doctor or clinic can change medication.

The Medication List

Create and maintain a written list for each person you care for:

  • Name of medication
  • What it is for (if known)
  • Dose (how many tablets)
  • Time(s) to take it
  • Special instructions (with food, empty stomach, etc.)
  • Prescribing clinic/doctor
  • Date of last refill

Organising Medication

Setting up a simple system helps prevent missed doses:

  • Egg cartons - label each section with the day and time
  • Small containers - one for each time of day
  • Paper packets - labelled with the day and time

The system matters more than the container. Any clean, divided container works.

Daily Routine

  • Set consistent times for medication reminders
  • Give a verbal reminder: "It is time for your morning medication"
  • If needed, bring the medication and water to the person
  • Watch to confirm they have taken it
  • Record that the dose was taken

What to Report

Contact the medical team if you notice:

  • Missed doses (do NOT double up - just record and report)
  • The person seems confused about their medications
  • Visible side effects (dizziness, rash, nausea, unusual drowsiness)
  • Expired medications
  • Running low on supply (report at least 1 week before running out)
  • Medications that look different from usual (different colour or shape)

Safe Storage

  • Away from children
  • Away from direct heat and moisture
  • In original packaging where possible
  • In a secure, consistent location
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Basic First Aid for the Elderly

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Nutrition and Hydration for Older Adults