Even within the limited PSW role, safe medication practice matters. Two basics show up often: the "rights" and safe storage.
The Rights of Medication
- Right person
- Right medication
- Right dose
- Right time
- Right route
- Right documentation
Checking the rights helps prevent errors when you assist.
Safe Storage
- Keep medications in their original, labelled containers.
- Store away from children and confused clients.
- Follow storage instructions (some need refrigeration).
- Keep medications out of heat and moisture.
- Never use expired medication.
Stay in Scope
PSWs remind and assist — they don't pour, inject, or adjust doses. Report refusals and side effects.
If an Error Happens
Report any medication error immediately and honestly — client safety comes first.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Check the rights: person, med, dose, time, route, documentation.
- Store meds labelled, secure, and correctly.
- Never use expired medication.
- Report errors and refusals immediately.