Management and Administration of Medication in Social Care Settings

Course Type: NOCN Unit, Level 4

Length: Flexible delivery, 6 week course, part-time

Entry Requirements:

To be currently working in an organisation that supports clients who require medication

> Level 2 qualification related to safe handling of medicines

> Level 3 qualification in a related subject area (desirable not essential)

> Attend an interview

Location:

This module is designed for any person involved in management and administration of medicines whilst working within the health and social care sector. It is an ideal opportunity for healthcare staff to refresh their knowledge and understanding in line with current legislation, policy and guidance. The purpose of the module is to equip learners with the knowledge to understand the legislative framework governing the use of medication in a health or social care setting.

WHAT WILL I STUDY?

> Legislation protecting the public: Medicines Act 1968, Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, Care Act 2014, Data Protection Act 2018, local policies and procedures

> Roles and responsibilities of those involved in prescribing, dispensing, administering, storing and disposing of medicines including consent and refusal

> Classification of medication; maintaining therapeutic levels

> Types of medication; to include a wide range of prescribed and over the counter medication. Controlled drugs

> Routes of administration

> Record keeping, disposal of medicines

> Maintaining standard precautions to include hygiene, handling, correct dosage, safe administration, storage

> Side effects/Adverse reactions and responding to these appropriately

HOW AM I ASSESSED?

Assessment is through completion of a workbook. This course is 4 credits at level 4.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Level 5 Management of Medication for Managers or other relevant higher education certificate, diplomas or degrees. Employment opportunities.

Management of Medication for Managers

Course Type: NOCN Unit, Level 5

Length: Flexible delivery, 6 week course, part-time

Entry Requirements:

> Be currently employed as a manager or senior employee within a health or social care organisation which has a medication policy

> Have responsibility for the management and monitoring of medication administration within the organisation

> Have support from the employing organisation

> Level 2/3 medication related qualification

> Attend an interview Location:

WHAT WILL I STUDY?

If you are a manager or senior employee in a relevant role, this award provides you with the opportunity to develop your knowledge and skills in relation to quality assurance and quality improvement within the context of the management of medication. Errors in medication administration within the public, private health and social care sectors are a major concern for those using and delivering these services and account for financial loss as well as the human cost to those affected.

HOW AM I ASSESSED?

You are assessed by one written assignment. The assignment requires you to undertake a medication risk assessment within your area of practice, identifying potential hazards at stages of the medication process. This is followed by recognition of the importance of robust policy and implementation of the policy with links to legislation and guidance.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Relevant HE certificates, diplomas or degrees. Potential promotion opportunities within the workplace setting.