As a pharmacy technician, how would you determine the most suitable equipment to use in the administration of medication?
That depends upon the medication. The decision is usually not made by a pharmacy technician. The decision is usually made by a Dr. and the administration is done by a nurse. Many drugs are taken orally and do not require any equipment. Some must be administered intravenously.
For more about this subject, see
http://www.enotes.com/nursing-encyclopedia/administration-medication
As a pharmacy technician, determining the most suitable equipment for administering medication requires a systematic approach. Here are the steps you can follow:
1. Review the medication orders: Read and understand the medication orders carefully. Determine the route of administration (e.g., oral, injectable, topical) specified by the prescriber.
2. Evaluate the medication characteristics: Consider the medication's physical properties, such as concentration, viscosity, and stability. Some medications may require specialized equipment due to their unique characteristics.
3. Consider patient's condition and needs: Assess the patient's individual needs, such as age, physical ability, and cognitive function. These factors will help you select appropriate equipment that ensures safety and ease of use.
4. Consult drug references and guidelines: Refer to reputable drug references, product inserts, and organization guidelines (such as USP, FDA, or manufacturer recommendations) for specific information on equipment selection and administration techniques.
5. Evaluate available equipment options: Determine what equipment is available in your pharmacy or healthcare setting. Consider factors such as cost, availability, storage space, and compatibility with current medication stock.
6. Consider ergonomics and safety: Choose equipment that meets ergonomic standards and minimizes the risk of errors or accidents. For example, syringes with clear markings, safety mechanisms, and proper needle sizes for injections can enhance accuracy and safety.
7. Seek input and collaborate: Discuss with the pharmacist, other healthcare professionals, or experienced colleagues to gain insights or recommendations based on their expertise.
8. Consider patient preferences: Take into account the patient's comfort level and preferences when selecting equipment. For instance, some patients may have a preference for oral medications over injectables or may prefer certain types of devices.
By following these steps, you can make an informed decision about the most suitable equipment for administering medication, ensuring both patient safety and optimal therapeutic outcomes.