Administration Of Medications A Self Assessment Guide

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Administration Of Medications A Self Assessment Guide

Verify QMAPAssessment For Self Medication Administration
Administration Of Medications A Self Assessment Guide For Trainers
Administration Of Medications A Self Assessment Guide Rcfe
Paper certificates are not provided. Online verification is the only official means of verifying a QMAP status.
Medication administration: the act of giving medications to an individual client through a specific medication route (e.g., enteral, percutaneous, parenteral). C l ie n t p r a c t i c e e n v i r o n m e n t n u r s e RISK ASSESSMENT This tool is a resource for nurses in all practice settings to help them understand the principals associated. Medication Administration and Safety Practices 17-22 Chapter 3. Self-Administered Medication Use and Storage 23-25 Chapter 4. Use of Pill Organizers - 'Only for Self-Administration' 26 Chapter 5. Assistance with Self-Administration of Medication 27-31 Chapter 6. Medication Orders and Prescription Labels 32-40 Chapter 7. Self Assessments ISMP Medication Safety Self Assessments® are available for various healthcare settings and can be used to assess your practices and processes related to medication use. They are designed to be completed by an interdisciplinary team, including both frontline staff and management.
Find an instructorYou will need to contact an instructor for their class schedule, fees, and location.
Student ResourcesOnline preparatory course and instructions.
 ​Become a QMAP training entityHow to become an Approved Training Entity video.
Transcript.
'Qualified instructor' means a nurse, pharmacist, physician, or physician assistant with an active, unrestricted Colorado license.
Training needs to comply with the regulations and is provided by agencies, associations, facilities, individuals, institutions or organizations have been reviewed and approved by the department.
A QMAP can:Administer medications according to written physician's orders.
Maintain proper documentation of the administration of both prescription and non-prescription drugs.
Use proper techniques when administering medications by various routes.
Safely and accurately fill and administer medications to and from medication reminder boxes with oversight from a licensed person or qualified manager.
Administer medications only in authorized settings:
Assisted living residences.
Adult foster care facilities.
Alternative care facilities.
Residential child care facilities.
Secure residential treatment centers.
State certified adult day programs.
Program approved service agencies (PASA) serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
A QMAP is not:Certified or licensed.
Trained or authorized to make any type of judgment, assessment, or evaluation of a client.
For more information, email cdphe_hfemsd_qmap@state.co.us.
Information and other QMAP programsQualified medication administration personnel(QMAP) classes teach unlicensed staff members to safely administer medications in certain settings where it's authorized by law.

Assessment For Self Medication AdministrationFacilities regulated by the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS).Administration of Medication training is specifically developed for youth Services communities (e.g., less than 24-hour childcare, licensed day care, foster care, and youth camps).
This training can be found at the Office of Early Childhood's website in the 'Required Pre-Service and Orientation Courses.'
Facilities regulated by the Department of Corrections.Qualified medication administration curriculum is specifically developed for the administration of medications in correctional facilities (Youth Corrections).
The program requires registration through Youth Corrections.
Chapter 6. Non-Parenteral Medication Administration
In this section, we address how to administer topical medication using three distinct delivery methods: transdermal patch; creams, lotions, or ointments; and powder. Always wear gloves and maintain standard precautions when administering topical medications to the skin, mucous membranes, and tissues. Do not touch any preparations to your own skin, and turn your face away from powdered applications. Always clean the skin or wound before applying a new dose of topical medication.

Administration Of Medications A Self Assessment Guide

Checklist 53 lists the steps for applying a transdermal patch.
Checklist 53: Applying a Transdermal PatchDisclaimer: Always review and follow your hospital policy regarding this specific skill.
Safety considerations:Perform hand hygiene.
Check room for additional precautions.
Introduce yourself to patient.
Confirm patient ID using two patient identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth).
Check allergy band for any allergies.
Complete necessary focused assessments and/or vital signs, and document on MAR.
Provide patient education as necessary.
Plan medication administration to avoid disruption:Dispense medication in a quiet area.
Avoid conversation with others.
Follow agency's no-interruption zone policy.
Prepare medications for ONE patient at a time.
Follow the SEVEN RIGHTS of medication administration.
Steps Additional Information
1. Check MAR against doctor's orders.Check that MAR and doctor's orders are consistent.Night staff usually complete and verify this check as well.
2. Perform the SEVEN RIGHTS x 3 (must be done with each individual medication):The right patient
The right medication (drug)
The right dose
The right route
The right time
The right reason
The right documentation
Med calculation: D/H x S = A
(desired dosage/have available x stock = amount prepared)
The right patient: check that you have the correct patient using two patient identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth).The right medication (drug): check that you have the correct medication and that it is appropriate for the patient in the current context.
The right dose: check that the dose makes sense for the age, size, and condition of the patient. Different dosages may be indicated for different conditions.
The right route: check that the route is appropriate for the patient's current condition.
The right time: adhere to the prescribed dose and schedule.
The right reason: check that the patient is receiving the medication for the appropriate reason.
The right documentation: always verify any unclear or inaccurate documentation prior to administering medications.
NEVER document that you have given a medication until you have actually administered it.
3. The label on the medication must be checked for name, dose, and route, and compared with the MAR at three different times:When the medication is taken out of the drawer
When the medication is being poured
When the medication is being put away/or at bedside
These checks are done before administering the medication to your patient. If taking drug to bedside (e.g., eye drops), do third check at bedside.
4. Before applying a transdermal patch, remove the old patch if it is still in place. Clean area thoroughly.Observe for signs of skin irritation at old patch and document as per agency policy.
Not removing previous patch may result in overdose of the medication. Check between skin folds for old patch.
5. Dispose of old patch as per agency policy (usually in a biohazard trash bag) by folding in half with sticky sides together and wrapping it in a glove, or cutting it before disposal.This prevents accidental exposure to the medication.
6. Use a felt tip or soft tip pen to write the date, time, and your initials on the outside of the new patch. DO NOT use a ballpoint pen.Initialling patch communicates application date and time to other health care providers.Ballpoint pen can damage patch and thus affect medication delivery.
7. Apply the new patch to a new site that is clear, dry, hairless, and free of skin irritations.If it is necessary to remove hair, clip the hair instead of shaving to avoid skin irritation.A consistent surface ensures even medication distribution.
NOTE: It is usual to have a 'patch-free period' of 10 to 12 hours when the patch is removed, because tolerance to the medication may develop if the patch is worn 24 hours/day. Check doctor's orders to determine if the patch should be removed overnight.
8. Carefully remove the backing from the patch, taking care to hold it at the edges and not touch the medication with your fingers.This prevents interference with medication and maintains stickiness of patch.
9. Apply patch by holding one hand firmly over the patch for 10 seconds, then press around the edges to make sure that the patch is securely attached to the skin.This prevents loss of patch and ensures effectiveness of medication delivery.
10. Perform hand hygiene.This prevents the transfer of microorganisms.
NOTE:Do not apply new patch to previously used sites for at least one week, so skin irritation is reduced.
Never cut patch in half; a change in dose requires a new transdermal patch.
Never apply a heating pad over the patch as it will affect the rate of absorption, with potentially serious adverse effects.
11. Document as per agency policy, making sure to include site of administration on the MAR.Accurate and timely documentation improves patient safety.
Data source: BCIT, 2015; Lilley et al., 2011; Perry et al., 2014

Assessment For Self Medication AdministrationFacilities regulated by the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS).Administration of Medication training is specifically developed for youth Services communities (e.g., less than 24-hour childcare, licensed day care, foster care, and youth camps).
This training can be found at the Office of Early Childhood's website in the 'Required Pre-Service and Orientation Courses.'
Facilities regulated by the Department of Corrections.Qualified medication administration curriculum is specifically developed for the administration of medications in correctional facilities (Youth Corrections).
The program requires registration through Youth Corrections.
Chapter 6. Non-Parenteral Medication Administration
In this section, we address how to administer topical medication using three distinct delivery methods: transdermal patch; creams, lotions, or ointments; and powder. Always wear gloves and maintain standard precautions when administering topical medications to the skin, mucous membranes, and tissues. Do not touch any preparations to your own skin, and turn your face away from powdered applications. Always clean the skin or wound before applying a new dose of topical medication.
Checklist 53 lists the steps for applying a transdermal patch.
Checklist 53: Applying a Transdermal PatchDisclaimer: Always review and follow your hospital policy regarding this specific skill.
Safety considerations:Perform hand hygiene.
Check room for additional precautions.
Introduce yourself to patient.
Confirm patient ID using two patient identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth).
Check allergy band for any allergies.
Complete necessary focused assessments and/or vital signs, and document on MAR.
Provide patient education as necessary.
Plan medication administration to avoid disruption:Dispense medication in a quiet area.
Avoid conversation with others.
Follow agency's no-interruption zone policy.
Prepare medications for ONE patient at a time.
Follow the SEVEN RIGHTS of medication administration.
Steps Additional Information
1. Check MAR against doctor's orders.Check that MAR and doctor's orders are consistent.Night staff usually complete and verify this check as well.
2. Perform the SEVEN RIGHTS x 3 (must be done with each individual medication):The right patient
The right medication (drug)
The right dose
The right route
The right time
The right reason
The right documentation
Med calculation: D/H x S = A
(desired dosage/have available x stock = amount prepared)
The right patient: check that you have the correct patient using two patient identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth).The right medication (drug): check that you have the correct medication and that it is appropriate for the patient in the current context.
The right dose: check that the dose makes sense for the age, size, and condition of the patient. Different dosages may be indicated for different conditions.
The right route: check that the route is appropriate for the patient's current condition.
The right time: adhere to the prescribed dose and schedule.
The right reason: check that the patient is receiving the medication for the appropriate reason.
The right documentation: always verify any unclear or inaccurate documentation prior to administering medications.
NEVER document that you have given a medication until you have actually administered it.
3. The label on the medication must be checked for name, dose, and route, and compared with the MAR at three different times:When the medication is taken out of the drawer
When the medication is being poured
When the medication is being put away/or at bedside
These checks are done before administering the medication to your patient. If taking drug to bedside (e.g., eye drops), do third check at bedside.
4. Before applying a transdermal patch, remove the old patch if it is still in place. Clean area thoroughly.Observe for signs of skin irritation at old patch and document as per agency policy.
Not removing previous patch may result in overdose of the medication. Check between skin folds for old patch.
5. Dispose of old patch as per agency policy (usually in a biohazard trash bag) by folding in half with sticky sides together and wrapping it in a glove, or cutting it before disposal.This prevents accidental exposure to the medication.
6. Use a felt tip or soft tip pen to write the date, time, and your initials on the outside of the new patch. DO NOT use a ballpoint pen.Initialling patch communicates application date and time to other health care providers.Ballpoint pen can damage patch and thus affect medication delivery.
7. Apply the new patch to a new site that is clear, dry, hairless, and free of skin irritations.If it is necessary to remove hair, clip the hair instead of shaving to avoid skin irritation.A consistent surface ensures even medication distribution.
NOTE: It is usual to have a 'patch-free period' of 10 to 12 hours when the patch is removed, because tolerance to the medication may develop if the patch is worn 24 hours/day. Check doctor's orders to determine if the patch should be removed overnight.
8. Carefully remove the backing from the patch, taking care to hold it at the edges and not touch the medication with your fingers.This prevents interference with medication and maintains stickiness of patch.
9. Apply patch by holding one hand firmly over the patch for 10 seconds, then press around the edges to make sure that the patch is securely attached to the skin.This prevents loss of patch and ensures effectiveness of medication delivery.
10. Perform hand hygiene.This prevents the transfer of microorganisms.
NOTE:Do not apply new patch to previously used sites for at least one week, so skin irritation is reduced.
Never cut patch in half; a change in dose requires a new transdermal patch.
Never apply a heating pad over the patch as it will affect the rate of absorption, with potentially serious adverse effects.
11. Document as per agency policy, making sure to include site of administration on the MAR.Accurate and timely documentation improves patient safety.
Data source: BCIT, 2015; Lilley et al., 2011; Perry et al., 2014
Administration Of Medications A Self Assessment Guide For TrainersHow to convert line endings in visual studio for mac. Checklist 54 lists the steps for applying topical medications as creams, lotions, and ointments.
Checklist 54: Applying Topical Creams, Lotions, and OintmentsDisclaimer: Always review and follow your hospital policy regarding this specific skill.
Safety considerations:Perform hand hygiene.
Check room for additional precautions.
Introduce yourself to patient.
Confirm patient ID using two patient identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth).
Check allergy band for any allergies.
Complete necessary focused assessments and/or vital signs, and document on MAR.
Provide patient education as necessary.
Plan medication administration to avoid disruption:Dispense medication in a quiet area.
Avoid conversation with others.
Follow agency's no-interruption zone policy.
Prepare medications for ONE patient at a time.
Follow the SEVEN RIGHTS of medication administration.
Steps Additional Information
1. Check MAR against doctor's orders.Check that MAR and doctor's orders are consistent.
Night staff usually complete and verify this check as well.
2. Perform the SEVEN RIGHTS x 3 (must be done with each individual medication):The right patient
The right medication (drug)
The right dose
The right route
The right time
The right reason
The right documentation
Medication calculation: D/H x S = A
(D or desired dosage/H or have available x S or stock = A or amount prepared)
The right patient: check that you have the correct patient using two patient identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth).The right medication (drug): check that you have the correct medication and that it is appropriate for the patient in the current context.
The right dose: check that the dose makes sense for the age, size, and condition of the patient. Different dosages may be indicated for different conditions.
The right route: check that the route is appropriate for the patient's current condition.
The right time: adhere to the prescribed dose and schedule.
The right reason: check that the patient is receiving the medication for the appropriate reason.
The right documentation: always verify any unclear or inaccurate documentation prior to administering medications.
NEVER document that you have given a medication until you have actually administered it.
3. The label on the medication must be checked for name, dose, and route, and compared with the MAR at three different times:When the medication is taken out of the drawer
When the medication is being poured
When the medication is being put away/or at bedside
These checks are done before administering the medication to your patient. If taking drug to bedside (e.g., eye drops), do third check at bedside.
4. Apply non-sterile gloves unless skin is broken; then apply sterile gloves.Using gloves protects health care provider from contact with medication.If skin is broken, sterile gloves will prevent the spread of microorganisms.
5. Wash, rinse, and dry the affected area with water and a clean cloth.This removes previous topical medications.
6. If skin is very dry and flaking, apply topical medication while skin is still damp.Applying while skin is damp helps to retain moisture within skin layers.
7. Change gloves, performing hand hygiene in between.Use sterile gloves for open skin lesions to prevent spread of microorganisms.
8. Place required amount of medication in palm of hands and soften by rubbing palms together.Softening makes topical medication easier to spread.
9. Let patient know that initial application may feel cold. Apply medication using long even strokes that follow the direction of the hair. Do not rub vigorously.This prevents irritation of hair follicles.
10. Let patient know that skin may feel greasy after application.Some topical medications contain oils.
11. Document as per agency policy, making sure to include site of administration on the MAR.Accurate and timely documentation improves patient safety.
12. Perform hand hygiene.This step prevents the transfer of microorganisms.
Data source: BCIT, 2015; Lilley et al., 2011; Perry et al., 2014
Administration Of Medications A Self Assessment Guide RcfeCamtasia 2018 crack key. Checklist 55 lists the steps for applying medicinal powder topically.
Checklist 55: Applying Topical PowderDisclaimer: Always review and follow your hospital policy regarding this specific skill.
Safety considerations:Perform hand hygiene.
Check room for additional precautions.
Introduce yourself to patient.
Confirm patient ID using two patient identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth).
Check allergy band for any allergies.
Complete necessary focused assessments and/or vital signs, and document on MAR.
Provide patient education as necessary.
Plan medication administration to avoid disruption:Dispense medication in a quiet area.
Avoid conversation with others.
Follow agency's no-interruption zone policy.
Prepare medications for ONE patient at a time.
Follow the SEVEN RIGHTS of medication administration.
Steps Additional Information
1. Check MAR against doctor's orders.Check that MAR and doctor's orders are consistent.
Okuma and distributors have support people ready and able to get you either electronic copies, DVDs or hard copies of any manual for your machine tool. Okuma manual. When you request a manual we also like to take the time to make sure you're getting the manual that will answer your question best and not require you to figure out which manual has what information and if a generic manual post online will fit your machine.
Night staff usually complete and verify this check as well.
2. Perform the SEVEN RIGHTS x 3 (must be done with each individual medication):The right patient
The right medication (drug)
The right dose
The right route
The right time
The right reason
The right documentation
Medication calculation: D/H x S = A
(D or desired dosage/H or have available x S or stock = A or amount prepared)
The right patient: check that you have the correct patient using two patient identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth).The right medication (drug): check that you have the correct medication and that it is appropriate for the patient in the current context.
The right dose: check that the dose makes sense for the age, size, and condition of the patient. Different dosages may be indicated for different conditions.
The right route: check that the route is appropriate for the patient's current condition.
The right time: adhere to the prescribed dose and schedule.
The right reason: check that the patient is receiving the medication for the appropriate reason.
The right documentation: always verify any unclear or inaccurate documentation prior to administering medications.
NEVER document that you have given a medication until you have actually administered it.
3. The label on the medication must be checked for name, dose, and route, and compared with the MAR at three different times:When the medication is taken out of the drawer
When the medication is being poured
When the medication is being put away/or at bedside
These checks are done before administering the medication to your patient. If taking drug to bedside (e.g., eye drops), do third check at bedside.
4. Ensure that skin is completely dry and clean before application.This minimizes potential for powder to cake and crust.
5. If application is near patient's face, ask patient to turn away from powder or briefly cover face with a clean towel.This prevents patient from inhaling powder.
6. Dust skin with a light layer of powder.Too thick a layer of powder will congeal and crust.
7. If ordered, cover the affected site with the prescribed dressing.Covering site prevents soiling of patient's clothes and linens.
8. Document as per agency policy, making sure to include site of administration on the MAR.Accurate and timely documentation improves patient safety.
9. Perform hand hygiene.Prevents transfer of microorganisms.
Data source: BCIT, 2015; Lilley et al., 2011; Perry et al., 2014
Critical Thinking Exercises
Your patient's MAR states that their Nitro-Patch should be removed at night. Please explain why this is considered safe practice.
Discuss the steps you would take to administer a lotion for a patient with a rash that has several open lesions.
Discuss why it is necessary to ensure that your patient's skin is clean and dry prior to applying a prescribed topical powder.

Checklist 53: Applying a Transdermal Patch Disclaimer: Always review and follow your hospital policy regarding this specific skill.
Safety considerations: Perform hand hygiene. Check room for additional precautions. Introduce yourself to patient. Confirm patient ID using two patient identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth). Check allergy band for any allergies. Complete necessary focused assessments and/or vital signs, and document on MAR. Provide patient education as necessary. Plan medication administration to avoid disruption: Dispense medication in a quiet area. Avoid conversation with others. Follow agency's no-interruption zone policy. Prepare medications for ONE patient at a time. Follow the SEVEN RIGHTS of medication administration.
Steps	Additional Information
1. Check MAR against doctor's orders.	Check that MAR and doctor's orders are consistent. Night staff usually complete and verify this check as well.
2. Perform the SEVEN RIGHTS x 3 (must be done with each individual medication): The right patient The right medication (drug) The right dose The right route The right time The right reason The right documentation Med calculation: D/H x S = A (desired dosage/have available x stock = amount prepared)	The right patient: check that you have the correct patient using two patient identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth). The right medication (drug): check that you have the correct medication and that it is appropriate for the patient in the current context. The right dose: check that the dose makes sense for the age, size, and condition of the patient. Different dosages may be indicated for different conditions. The right route: check that the route is appropriate for the patient's current condition. The right time: adhere to the prescribed dose and schedule. The right reason: check that the patient is receiving the medication for the appropriate reason. The right documentation: always verify any unclear or inaccurate documentation prior to administering medications. NEVER document that you have given a medication until you have actually administered it.
3. The label on the medication must be checked for name, dose, and route, and compared with the MAR at three different times: When the medication is taken out of the drawer When the medication is being poured When the medication is being put away/or at bedside	These checks are done before administering the medication to your patient. If taking drug to bedside (e.g., eye drops), do third check at bedside.
4. Before applying a transdermal patch, remove the old patch if it is still in place. Clean area thoroughly. Observe for signs of skin irritation at old patch and document as per agency policy.	Not removing previous patch may result in overdose of the medication. Check between skin folds for old patch.
5. Dispose of old patch as per agency policy (usually in a biohazard trash bag) by folding in half with sticky sides together and wrapping it in a glove, or cutting it before disposal.	This prevents accidental exposure to the medication.
6. Use a felt tip or soft tip pen to write the date, time, and your initials on the outside of the new patch. DO NOT use a ballpoint pen.	Initialling patch communicates application date and time to other health care providers. Ballpoint pen can damage patch and thus affect medication delivery.
7. Apply the new patch to a new site that is clear, dry, hairless, and free of skin irritations.	If it is necessary to remove hair, clip the hair instead of shaving to avoid skin irritation. A consistent surface ensures even medication distribution.
NOTE: It is usual to have a 'patch-free period' of 10 to 12 hours when the patch is removed, because tolerance to the medication may develop if the patch is worn 24 hours/day. Check doctor's orders to determine if the patch should be removed overnight.
8. Carefully remove the backing from the patch, taking care to hold it at the edges and not touch the medication with your fingers.	This prevents interference with medication and maintains stickiness of patch.
9. Apply patch by holding one hand firmly over the patch for 10 seconds, then press around the edges to make sure that the patch is securely attached to the skin.	This prevents loss of patch and ensures effectiveness of medication delivery.
10. Perform hand hygiene.	This prevents the transfer of microorganisms.
NOTE: Do not apply new patch to previously used sites for at least one week, so skin irritation is reduced. Never cut patch in half; a change in dose requires a new transdermal patch. Never apply a heating pad over the patch as it will affect the rate of absorption, with potentially serious adverse effects.
11. Document as per agency policy, making sure to include site of administration on the MAR.	Accurate and timely documentation improves patient safety.
Data source: BCIT, 2015; Lilley et al., 2011; Perry et al., 2014

Checklist 54: Applying Topical Creams, Lotions, and Ointments Disclaimer: Always review and follow your hospital policy regarding this specific skill.
Safety considerations: Perform hand hygiene. Check room for additional precautions. Introduce yourself to patient. Confirm patient ID using two patient identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth). Check allergy band for any allergies. Complete necessary focused assessments and/or vital signs, and document on MAR. Provide patient education as necessary. Plan medication administration to avoid disruption: Dispense medication in a quiet area. Avoid conversation with others. Follow agency's no-interruption zone policy. Prepare medications for ONE patient at a time. Follow the SEVEN RIGHTS of medication administration.
Steps	Additional Information
1. Check MAR against doctor's orders.	Check that MAR and doctor's orders are consistent. Night staff usually complete and verify this check as well.
2. Perform the SEVEN RIGHTS x 3 (must be done with each individual medication): The right patient The right medication (drug) The right dose The right route The right time The right reason The right documentation Medication calculation: D/H x S = A (D or desired dosage/H or have available x S or stock = A or amount prepared)	The right patient: check that you have the correct patient using two patient identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth). The right medication (drug): check that you have the correct medication and that it is appropriate for the patient in the current context. The right dose: check that the dose makes sense for the age, size, and condition of the patient. Different dosages may be indicated for different conditions. The right route: check that the route is appropriate for the patient's current condition. The right time: adhere to the prescribed dose and schedule. The right reason: check that the patient is receiving the medication for the appropriate reason. The right documentation: always verify any unclear or inaccurate documentation prior to administering medications. NEVER document that you have given a medication until you have actually administered it.
3. The label on the medication must be checked for name, dose, and route, and compared with the MAR at three different times: When the medication is taken out of the drawer When the medication is being poured When the medication is being put away/or at bedside	These checks are done before administering the medication to your patient. If taking drug to bedside (e.g., eye drops), do third check at bedside.
4. Apply non-sterile gloves unless skin is broken; then apply sterile gloves.	Using gloves protects health care provider from contact with medication. If skin is broken, sterile gloves will prevent the spread of microorganisms.
5. Wash, rinse, and dry the affected area with water and a clean cloth.	This removes previous topical medications.
6. If skin is very dry and flaking, apply topical medication while skin is still damp.	Applying while skin is damp helps to retain moisture within skin layers.
7. Change gloves, performing hand hygiene in between.	Use sterile gloves for open skin lesions to prevent spread of microorganisms.
8. Place required amount of medication in palm of hands and soften by rubbing palms together.	Softening makes topical medication easier to spread.
9. Let patient know that initial application may feel cold. Apply medication using long even strokes that follow the direction of the hair. Do not rub vigorously.	This prevents irritation of hair follicles.
10. Let patient know that skin may feel greasy after application.	Some topical medications contain oils.
11. Document as per agency policy, making sure to include site of administration on the MAR.	Accurate and timely documentation improves patient safety.
12. Perform hand hygiene.	This step prevents the transfer of microorganisms.
Data source: BCIT, 2015; Lilley et al., 2011; Perry et al., 2014

Checklist 55: Applying Topical Powder Disclaimer: Always review and follow your hospital policy regarding this specific skill.
Safety considerations: Perform hand hygiene. Check room for additional precautions. Introduce yourself to patient. Confirm patient ID using two patient identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth). Check allergy band for any allergies. Complete necessary focused assessments and/or vital signs, and document on MAR. Provide patient education as necessary. Plan medication administration to avoid disruption: Dispense medication in a quiet area. Avoid conversation with others. Follow agency's no-interruption zone policy. Prepare medications for ONE patient at a time. Follow the SEVEN RIGHTS of medication administration.
Steps	Additional Information
1. Check MAR against doctor's orders.	Check that MAR and doctor's orders are consistent. Okuma and distributors have support people ready and able to get you either electronic copies, DVDs or hard copies of any manual for your machine tool. Okuma manual. When you request a manual we also like to take the time to make sure you're getting the manual that will answer your question best and not require you to figure out which manual has what information and if a generic manual post online will fit your machine. Night staff usually complete and verify this check as well.
2. Perform the SEVEN RIGHTS x 3 (must be done with each individual medication): The right patient The right medication (drug) The right dose The right route The right time The right reason The right documentation Medication calculation: D/H x S = A (D or desired dosage/H or have available x S or stock = A or amount prepared)	The right patient: check that you have the correct patient using two patient identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth). The right medication (drug): check that you have the correct medication and that it is appropriate for the patient in the current context. The right dose: check that the dose makes sense for the age, size, and condition of the patient. Different dosages may be indicated for different conditions. The right route: check that the route is appropriate for the patient's current condition. The right time: adhere to the prescribed dose and schedule. The right reason: check that the patient is receiving the medication for the appropriate reason. The right documentation: always verify any unclear or inaccurate documentation prior to administering medications. NEVER document that you have given a medication until you have actually administered it.
3. The label on the medication must be checked for name, dose, and route, and compared with the MAR at three different times: When the medication is taken out of the drawer When the medication is being poured When the medication is being put away/or at bedside	These checks are done before administering the medication to your patient. If taking drug to bedside (e.g., eye drops), do third check at bedside.
4. Ensure that skin is completely dry and clean before application.	This minimizes potential for powder to cake and crust.
5. If application is near patient's face, ask patient to turn away from powder or briefly cover face with a clean towel.	This prevents patient from inhaling powder.
6. Dust skin with a light layer of powder.	Too thick a layer of powder will congeal and crust.
7. If ordered, cover the affected site with the prescribed dressing.	Covering site prevents soiling of patient's clothes and linens.
8. Document as per agency policy, making sure to include site of administration on the MAR.	Accurate and timely documentation improves patient safety.
9. Perform hand hygiene.	Prevents transfer of microorganisms.
Data source: BCIT, 2015; Lilley et al., 2011; Perry et al., 2014