Correct way on passing meds

[Samantha O5]

So the survey is coming in our facility ? with only a year of experience,i just wanted to ask or to refresh the correct way of giving meds.. i noticed that some are wearing gloves on giving it while some are not ? when they oriented me.. the seniors are not wearing it.. and also for the gtube.. what is the correct way of giving medication with a gtube client ?? Thanks guys

[MamaCrow86]

The correct way is what YOUR state says it is, but with g-tube... yeah wear gloves. As for all other protocols, find out what your facility's procedure is because it may and will be different than others. Some facilities and states don't require gloves with normal med pass.

Your DON can answer this better than we can ?

[ginaolive823]

I’m sure if your facility knows they are coming they’d love to brush you up on the rules. Hand sanitizer is important and forgotten easily going from patient to patient. Gloves for everything! When you are popping pills try not to touch them. Best of luck. Remember to keep patient dignity also (bring them in their room for eye drops, fingersticks)

[Fayren]

I only wear gloves if I need to just as long as I hand sanitizer in between and wash hands between every 3 reaidents that is state law here in ok. But some pills I do wear gloves because the pills can effect you through skin. . .just make sure to change gloves and still hand sanitizer and wash as needed or recommenden.

[amoLucia]

Remember to follow your facilty's protocol for doing glucose fingersticks. Particularly the cleansing of the glucometer after/between pt sticks.

I'm guessing you're working in LTC so you could see if your pharmacy consultant does practice med pass surveys. Some nurses appreciated the review, some hated it. Your Staff Devel nurse may have some hand-outs avail for you.

Also follow your training re the gtubes. Any good reference source could give you the step-by-step. I'm sure Youtube might describe it also.

There have been multiple postings here on AN re tips for med pass. Very goods tips. Best one I liked was to try to do your tough-y pts first. Like the gtubes and eye drop pts. Tips incl info re supplements, applesauce, crackers, juices, etc.

Another biggie where I was once emphasized the identification of the residents. Yes, you may KNOW Ms Smith very well, but the surveyors wanted to make sure nurses were checking IDs.

It may be nerve wracking but if you show them you know what you're doing, you'll do fine.

Good luck.