Dispensing Medication

Who is permitted to dispense medications

• Only nurses and LIPs

What medications can be dispensed

• Medications on the stock medication list

WHICH ARE ALSO

• Properly ordered by provider

Note: Medications on the stock medication list have been approved through Westside’s approval process

Ordering

• Providers must place an order in the EMR prior to preparation of medication for dispensing (or follow downtime procedures when appropriate).

Preparation of medication

• Use clean technique
• Maintain a clean, uncluttered, and functionally separate area for preparation to avoid contamination
• Prepare medication on a medication tray
  • Use a new tray liner with each new medication preparation, OR
• Disinfect tray with disinfectant wipe after each use

Labeling medication

• All medication to be dispensed are to be labeled with:
  • Medication name
  • Direction for use
  • Strength
  • Amount
  • Expiration date when not used within 24 hours
  • Expiration time when expiration occurs in less than 24 hours
  • Lot number

Review

• After the medication order has been reviewed, any concerns, issues, or questions are clarified with the prescriber, or another LIP if appropriate, before dispensing.

Documentation

• Sign out dispensed medications in the Stock Medication Log and document on the patient flowsheet in EMR

Medication pickup

• Individuals picking up medication are required to present identification and sign for pick-up.

• Education regarding medication use, dosage, and potential interactions should be provided at the time the medication is ordered by the prescribing provider
• Medications dispensed via the MAP are to be signed out in the MAP log and scanned to the patient electronic medical record.
• Medications obtained through the MAP are subject to all of the rules and guidelines for dispensing outlined in this policy.