Question regarding drug administration to an infant

[pinkfluffybunny]

Is it ever acceptable for the parent to administer medication to an infant in the hospital setting? Or is this allowed if you follow all of procedures and she administers the medication in your presense?

[swirlything]

It is important for parents to learn how to properly administer medications to their infant that the infant will be getting at home. In order to do this, the nurse must teach the parent how to give the medication and then have the parent actually administer the medication to demonstrate competency. This is the best way to ensure that the parent will be able to poperly administer the medication at home.

[brownbook]

If it is a doctor prescribed medicine, you have drawn it up, or carefully watched and doubled checked as the mom drew it up. It would seem to be good patient family education, especially if it is a medication the mom will have to continue to give the infant at home. I have no problem with it. Good for the mom to feel she is helping and interacting with her child. Of course others will bring up POLICY, lets let a policy get in the way of parent education!!!

[jodi_cmsrn]

Our hospital policy actually allows for parents to administer medications that were prepared by the nurse, in the presence of the nurse.

[PetiteOpRN]

When my kids were sick and hospitalized (including NICU), I always administered PO and topical medications, if I was there when they needed to be given, which was most of the time. Never did shots or touched the IVs.

ETA: I also did basic care, like diaper changes, feeding, and baths. The more a parent can do, the more "normal" hospitalization is for the whole family.

[perfectbluebuildings, BSN, RN]

Seems like a lot of times babies and even kids all the way through early school age will take PO medicines better if given by a parent. (after drawn up and checked by the RN.) More familiar face, and the parent often knows the best way to get their particular kid to take the medicine.

[Richard_Head]

Be aware that if it a medicatio ordered as part of their hospital stay you will be the legally responsible party for any irregularities related to the administration of the med.