One of the first things that caregivers at Hearts at Home Seniors Care in Houston learn, through the educational programs that they are supplied with, is the fact that caregivers are not certified to administer drugs to the client, be they receiving in home care or being visited in assisted living facilities. Although the caregiver cannot administer medication to the senior directly, there are many things that can be done to contribute to the care that is being provided to your loved one.
Why Should Caregivers Avoid Giving Medication to Clients?
Caregivers should avoid giving clients medication, as it not within the boundaries of the care that is provided by the traditional caregiver services. Although the caregiver may be aware of the medications that the client is taking, the caregiver may be unable to determine if there will be an interaction between the medications which are being administered and the medications which are taken on a daily basis.
Aside from any obvious legal ramifications of a caregiver in an elderly care situation administering drugs there will always be the chance that there could be a fatal errors made due to lack of professional training.
What Should a Caregiver do if the Senior Requests Medication?
In the case that the client requests medication from the caregiver, it can take a simple phone call to the doctor’s office, or nurses that are offering home care. The nurse can then give advice that can be dispensed to family members that can administer the medication to the client.
As an alternative, the caregiver may contact the family members or support system directly and allow the family members or friends to consent to the request, contact the physician or nurse that is responsible for the medication.
In the case that the client has taken it upon themselves to take medication that has not been prescribed, the caregiver can note this on the chart of the client which is prepared for the home care company. This information can be relayed to friends and family members and if this medication is seen as dangerous, it can be removed from the environment of the client to prevent further unauthorized usage.
How Can Caregivers Assist with Medication?
When dealing with the elderly, care must be taken regarding the reminding for medication to be taken. The use of medication holders which can determine which and how many pills should be taken each day can be used, as well as charts and reminder notes or alarms which are set to coincide with the schedule that the medication will be taken. Using these tips, the caregiver can take an active role in the care of the client, including the health without putting the caregiver, or the company that the caregiver works for in direct danger of acting unlawfully.
Still Unsure?
If you have any thoughts or questions after reading this please don’t hesitate to call our office to clear up any doubts you may have.