Quality Management System
601/2010/1 Specification
IQ Level 2 Certificate in Understanding the Safe Handling of Medicines (QCF)
Specification
Regulation No: 601/2010/1
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Contents
Page
Industry Qualifications ......................................................................................................................................................... 3
Introduction ......................................................................................................................................................................... 3
About this Qualification ....................................................................................................................................................... 4
Structure (Credit, Rules of Combination, Guided Learning Hours) ..................................................................................... 4
Delivery ............................................................................................................................................................................... 4
Assessment......................................................................................................................................................................... 4
Age range and Geographical Coverage .............................................................................................................................. 4
Learner entry requirements ................................................................................................................................................. 4
Tutor requirements .............................................................................................................................................................. 5
Centre Requirements .......................................................................................................................................................... 5
Unit 1: Understand medication and prescriptions Y/601/9571 ............................................................................................ 6
Unit 1 Guidance on Delivery and Assessment .................................................................................................................... 9
Unit 2: Supply, storage and disposal of medication K/601/9574 ....................................................................................... 10
Unit 2 Guidance on Delivery and Assessment .................................................................................................................. 13
Unit 3: Understand the requirements for the safe administration of medication T/601/9576 ............................................. 14
Unit 3 Guidance on Delivery and Assessment .................................................................................................................. 20
Unit 4: Record-keeping and audit processes for medication administration and storage F/601/9578............................... 21
Unit 4 Guidance on Delivery and Assessment .................................................................................................................. 24
Resources ......................................................................................................................................................................... 25
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Industry Qualifications
IQ is approved by the UK’s national regulator of qualifications Ofqual. It was launched in 2011 to provide users and
learners with the objective of achieving the highest levels of assessment integrity, customer service and sector
engagement. Uniquely, it is a membership based awarding organisation bringing together the best of UK vocational
education in a not for profit environment.
Further information can be found on the IQ web-site www.industryqualifications.org.uk
Introduction
This specification is intended for trainers, centres and learners. General information regarding centre approval,
registration, assessment papers, certification, reasonable adjustments, special consideration, appeals procedures are
available from the website. This document should be read in conjunction with the IQ QMS Centre guide available from
the website.
Website: www.industryqualifications.org.uk)
Enquiries: 01952 457452
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About this Qualification
The IQ Level 2 Certificate in Understanding the Safe Handling of Medicines (QCF) develops the learners' understanding
of different types of medication and how they are used. Learners will develop knowledge of the procedures for obtaining,
storing, administering and disposing of medicines, medicine related legislation, audit processes and issues of
responsibility and accountability. The objectives of the qualification are to prepare learners for further learning, prepare
them for employment and support a role in the workplace.
Structure (Credit, Rules of Combination, Guided Learning Hours)
To be awarded this qualification, learners must achieve 13 credits from the four mandatory units.
Unit
Credit
Guided Learning
Hours
Understand medication and prescriptions Y/601/9571
3
23
Supply, storage and disposal of medication K/601/9574
3
24
Understand the requirements for the safe administration of medication
T/601/9576
4
39
Record-keeping and audit processes for medication administration and storage
F/601/9578
3
24
13
110
Total
Delivery
Guided learning hours are 110. It is the responsibility of training centres to decide the appropriate course duration, based
on their learners’ ability and level of existing knowledge. It is possible, therefore, that the number of Guided Learning
Hours can vary from one training centre to another according to learners' needs. Guided learning hours are all times
when a member of provider staff is present to give specific guidance towards the learning aim being studied on the
programme. This definition includes lectures, tutorials, and supervised study. It does not include hours where supervision
or assistance is of a general nature and is not specific to the study of the learners.
Assessment
Assessment for this qualification is by portfolio of evidence.
Age range and Geographical Coverage
This qualification is approved for learners 18 plus in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Learner entry requirements
There are no formal entry requirements. However, learners should be able to work at level 1or above and be proficient in
the use of English Language.
Progression
Learners who achieve this qualification could progress on to further training or education and go on to qualifications in
health and social care, such as:
• IQ Level 2 Diploma in Health and Social Care (Adults) for England (QCF)
• IQ Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care (Adults) for England (QCF)
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• Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Dementia Care (QCF)
• Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Working in Mental Health (QCF)
• Level 3 Certificate in the Principles of End of Life Care (QCF)
Tutor requirements
All trainers delivering this qualification must have:
• Appropriate teaching qualification e.g. PTLLS
• Subject knowledge
Centre Requirements
Centres must be approved by IQ in order to offer this qualification.
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Unit 1: Understand medication and prescriptions Y/601/9571
Guided Learning Hours:
Unit Level:
Unit Credit:
23
2
3
Unit grid: Learning outcomes/Assessment Criteria/Content
Learning Outcome - The learner will:
Assessment Criteria - The learner can:
Contents:
1.Understand the use of different types
of medication
1.1
Identify the different types of medicines available and why
they are used
Different types of medicines: To include: antacids; analgesics;
anticoagulants; antihistamines; antimicrobials (antibiotics, anti-fungals,
anti-virals); anti-inflammatory (steroidal, non-steroidal); cardiovascular;
cytotoxic; diuretics; hormones; laxatives; psychotropics (antidepressants, mood stabilisers, anti-anxiety).
1.2
Describe the different routes by which medicines can be
administered
Administration routes: To include: mouth as tablets, capsules, liquids;
inhalation (nasal, oral); injection (intravenous, subcutaneous,
intramuscular, epidural); topical (creams, ointments, lotions); drops to ear,
nose, eyes; rectal (suppositories, enemas); vaginal (pessaries , creams).
2.1
Describe the following classifications of medicine:
• General Sales List (GSL)
• Pharmacy (P)
• Prescription Only Medicines (POM)
• controlled drugs
Classification of medicines: To include: descriptions and examples of
General Sales List (GSL) for general sale; Pharmacy (P) in a pharmacy
without prescription, supervised by a pharmacist; prescription only
medicine (POM), prescription issued by doctors, dentists, nurse
independent prescribers, pharmacist independent prescribers; controlled
drugs by legislation etc.
2.Understand how medicines are
classified
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3.Understand legislation and guidelines
related to medication
4.Understand the roles of self and others
in the medication process
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3.1
Outline the key points of current legislation and guidance
relating to medication
Current legislation and guidance relating to medication: To include: the
Medicines Act 1968 and amendments, Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and
amendments, Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, COSHH Regulations
1999, Care Standards Act 2000 (receipt, storage and administration of
medicines), Domiciliary Care Agencies Regulations 2002, Access to
Health Records Act 1990, Data Protection Act 1998, Hazardous Waste
Regulations 2005; guidance: Administration and Control of Medicines in
Care Homes and Children’s Services June 2003, The Handling of
Medicines in Social Care (Royal Pharmaceutical Society 2007),
Standards for Medicines Management (Nursing and Midwifery Council
2004), organisational code of conduct, procedures and guidelines.
3.2
Outline the consequences of not following relevant
legislation and guidance
Consequences of not following legislation and guidance: To include:
outline of the risks to life/ health/ wellbeing of individuals; risk to health/
wellbeing of carer; disciplinary proceedings; legal proceedings etc.
4.1
Outline the roles of self and others in the process of:
• prescribing medication
• dispensing medication
• obtaining and receiving medication
• administering medication
Roles of self and others:
Prescribing medication: Doctors, dentists, nurses, independent
prescribers, pharmacists, managers, social care staff, ancillary staff,
clerical staff/ administrators, family members and individuals.
Dispensing/ obtaining/ receiving medication: Carrying out checks e.g.
matching the medicine received to the individual’s name, recording
receipts using appropriate documentation, storage instructions,
confidentiality etc.
Administering medication: E.g. individuals managing own medications,
consent, following instructions in care/ support plans and Medication
Administration Record (MAR), recording administration; reporting
concerns to manager/ supervisor who will seek advice from GP,
pharmacist or nurse.
4.2
Identify the limitations of own role in relation to the
medication process
Limitations of own role: Covering: training requirements, following written
instructions in care/support plan and MAR, requirements for training to
give oral medicines, ear, nose and eye drops, inhalers and topical
medicines, specialised training e.g. for suppositories, enemas and
injections; following organisational guidelines; decisions on ‘take as
required’ medication; all medication used only from original container or in
a multi-compartment compliance aid filled by pharmacist or after
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specialised training.
5.Know how to access information about
medication
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4.3
Identify ways to get support and information in the
workplace related to medication
Support and information in the workplace: To include: patient information
leaflets; medication administration records, care-plans, support from
manager/ supervisor; pharmacist; organisational policies, procedures and
agreed ways of working, relevant documentation etc.
5.1
Identify the key approved national sources of information
about medication
Key approved national sources of information: Prescriber; pharmacist;
publications e.g. British National Formulary, MIMS; National Electronic
Library for Medicines, NHS Choices etc.
5.2
Describe the information which should be supplied with
medication
Information which should be supplied with medication: Name of individual
medication is supplied to, date, how to store, dose, number of doses per
day, how medication is taken, when it should be taken (e.g. at night, in the
morning, with/without food), identification of medicine, possible side
effects etc.
5.3
Describe why it is important to seek information from the
individual about their medication and condition
Importance of seeking information from an individual about their
medication and condition: To include: individual may have self medicated
using products from pharmacy or on general sale; condition/ symptoms
may have changed; incidence of adverse side effects of medication etc.
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Unit 1 Guidance on Delivery and Assessment
Delivery
This unit develops learners' knowledge of different types of medication and their uses, the classification of medicines, related legislation and guidelines. Their role and those of others
in prescribing and administering medication are covered and in particular the scope and limitations of those roles. They will also develop the key knowledge and understanding which
underpins the practices and procedures for administering medicines safely.
Assessment
This unit is about knowledge based on Skills for Health National I Occupational Standards.
Assessment is by portfolio (internally set and marked and quality assured by IQ). An Achievement Record for this qualification is available from the website/ on request. All
assessment criteria must be met and mapped and the location of the evidence must be indicated in the achievement record.
All learning outcomes must be assessed using methods appropriate to the assessment of knowledge and understanding; these can be assessed by a variety of methods including:
• Question and answer test
• Multiple choice questions
• Question and answer verbal (ensure records are kept)
• Essay
• Other
Links
This unit maps to Skills for Health National Occupational Standards - units CHS1, CHS2, CHS3 and units HSC 24, HSC221 and HSC236.
Additional information
1.1 ‘types’: antibiotics; antihistamines; analgesics; antacids; anti-coagulants; psychotropic medicine; diuretics; laxatives; hormones; cytotoxic medicines
3.1 ‘legislation and guidance’: this should be current and up-to-date (for example at the time of printing that produced by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, Access to
Health Records Acts etc.)
4.3 ‘information’: e.g. agreed ways of working
5.1 ‘sources’: e.g. prescriber, pharmacist, publications and websites (note a wide range of publications and internet sources are available related to medication, it is important to
ensure that information learners reference is related to the United Kingdom (UK) and reflects UK requirements)
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AW
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Unit 2: Supply, storage and disposal of medication K/601/9574
Guided Learning Hours:
Unit Level:
Unit Credit:
24
2
3
Unit grid: Learning outcomes/Assessment Criteria/Content
Learning Outcome - The learner will:
Assessment Criteria - The learner can:
Contents:
1. Understand how medicines are supplied
and obtained
1.1
Identify the purpose of a prescription
The purpose of a prescription: To permit the named individual to obtain
a licensed medicine that is regulated; covering: distinct from over-thecounter drugs which can be obtained without a prescription, instructions,
spectacles/ surgical appliances (by doctors, dentists, nurse prescribers or
pharmacist prescribers) dose, frequency and route of administration.
1.2
List the information that has to be checked and
recorded once medication has been received
Information that has to be checked/ recorded once medication has been
received: To include: matching dispensed medicine to the medication and
dosage on the prescription; information: name of person to whom the
prescription has been issued, date of prescription, expiry date, dosage,
frequency, timing e.g. night, morning, before/ after food, route of
administration, storage e.g. temperature etc.
1.3
Describe the procedure for:
• transferring medication from one setting to another
• obtaining medication in an emergency situation
• obtaining medication ‘as and when required
(PRN)’
• renewal of prescription
Procedure for transferring medication from one setting to another:
Transferring in line with agreed ways of working/ policy; destinations (e.g.
day-care, respite-care, residential-care); methods (e.g. with individual, in
original container etc.); copy of administration record for audit trail.
Procedure for obtaining medication in an emergency situation: Meeting
agreed ways of working for receiving/ recording; new medications; process
for prescriptions for acute medication; recording for audit trail.
Procedure for obtaining medication ‘as and when required’ (PRN): Meeting
agreed ways of working; procedures for renewal of prescription; audit trail
e.g. recording; control of stock e.g. check frequency of issue, expiry date,
reducing over ordering etc.
Procedure for renewal of a prescription: Meeting agreed ways of working;
repeat prescription from the surgery; pharmacy collection service; time
required to process renewal; changes to prescription; audit trail e.g.
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recording.
2.Know the requirements for storing
medication
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2.1
Describe the requirements of medication storage
within the following settings:
• clinical settings
• residential care
• day services
• domiciliary care
• non care settings
Medication storage in a range of settings :
Clinical settings: Medicines stored centrally in locked cabinet/cupboard,
controlled access, security system, medicines in original containers as
supplied/ labelled by the pharmacist or dispensing GP practice and stored
at correct temperature as stated on patient information leaflet.
Residential care: Risk assessment required, personal lockable cupboards
for individuals to self medicate and/or central storage of medicines in locked
cupboard accessible only to staff who administer medicines, key security
systems etc.
Day services: Individuals retain own medicines; day care staff may accept
responsibility for giving medicines, provide storage facilities, arrange for a
specially dispensed supply etc.
Domiciliary care: Individual makes decision about how they will store
medication.
Non-care settings: Agreed ways of working according to setting (e.g.
education facilities, religious establishments, voluntary agencies etc.).
2.2
Explain how controlled drugs should be stored
within the settings listed in 2.1
Storage of controlled drugs: Reasons for the additional safety precautions/
requirements in each setting.
Clinical and residential care: Conforming to standards specified in The
Misuse of Drugs (Safe Custody) Regulations 1973, can only be opened by
authorised person (e.g. pharmacist, registrant in charge, a person working
under their authority or an individual who is self medicating can hold their
own supply of controlled drugs (CDs) in their personal lockable cupboard).
Day services: If accepting responsibility for giving medicines (in locked
cupboard which conforms to standards).
Domiciliary care: No special cupboards are required.
Non-care settings: Local operational procedures.
2.3
Outline how to support individuals to store
medication securely for self-administration
Supporting individuals to store medication securely for self-administration:
To include: risk assessment, an individual who is self medicating can hold
their own supply of controlled drugs (CDs) in their personal lockable
cupboard), monitoring etc.
2.4
Give examples of the types of medication that have
Medication with specific storage requirements: To include: some antibiotics,
vaccines, insulin, eye drops, medication awaiting disposal.
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specific storage requirements
3.Understand the requirements for the safe
disposal of medication
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3.1
Give examples of why drugs might need to be
disposed of
Reasons for disposal of drugs: To include: prescription for medication
altered or discontinued; medication out of date; damaged/ compromised
medication; no longer needed e.g. death of individual.
3.2
Outline the procedures for the safe and secure
disposal of medication and equipment for:
• nursing care settings
• care settings
• domiciliary care settings
• controlled drugs
Procedures for the safe and secure disposal of medication/ equipment: To
include: current local and national organisational procedures; recording of
disposal; equipment (e.g. syringes, needles).
Nursing care settings: Returned to pharmacy
Care settings: Collection of waste medication/ clinical waste products by
licensed waste disposal company.
Domiciliary care settings: Return to supplier.
Controlled drugs: Procedures for disposal in care homes registered to
provide nursing care and other settings.
3.3
Explain why it is important to dispose of medication
and equipment in line with agreed procedures
Importance of disposing of medication/ equipment in line with agreed
procedures: To include: meeting legal requirements; protecting individuals
(ensuring medication is not taken accidentally by others, prevent infection
from needles); prevent theft/ misuse and protecting the environment.
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Unit 2 Guidance on Delivery and Assessment
Delivery
This unit develops the learners' knowledge of how medicines are supplied, the requirements for storage of different types of medication and the requirements for the safe disposal of
medication. It covers the responsibilities of staff in relation to these procedures.
Assessment
This unit is about knowledge based on Skills for Health National Occupational Standards.
Assessment is by portfolio (internally set and marked and quality assured by IQ).
An Achievement Record for this qualification is available from the website/ on request. All assessment criteria must be met and mapped and the location of the evidence must be indicated in
the achievement record.
All learning outcomes must be assessed using methods appropriate to the assessment of knowledge and understanding; these can be assessed by a variety of methods including:
• Question and answer test
• Multiple choice questions
• Question and answer verbal (ensure records are kept)
• Essay
• Other
Links
This unit maps to Skills for Health National Occupational Standards - units CHS1, CHS2, CHS3 and units HSC 24, HSC221 and HSC236.
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Unit 3: Understand the requirements for the safe administration of medication T/601/9576
Guided Learning Hours:
Unit Level:
Unit Credit:
39
2
4
Unit grid: Learning outcomes/Assessment Criteria/Content
Learning Outcome - The learner will:
Assessment Criteria - The learner can:
Contents:
1. Understand the preparations to be
taken prior to administering medication
1.1 Describe the roles and responsibilities of staff involved in:
• supporting individuals to take medication
• administering medication
• using specialised techniques to administer medication
Roles and responsibilities of staff: To include: agreed ways of working;
supporting individuals to take medication, promoting independence/
freedom of choice, administering medication using specialised
techniques (e.g. informed consent, safety and hygiene, care planning);
importance of training, maintaining dignity and meeting personal and
cultural preferences.
1.2 Explain why it is important to follow instructions on the
preparation and use of medication and the method of
administration from the:
• individual
• manufacturer
• pharmacist
• organisation
Importance of following instructions on the preparation and use of
medication: To include: maximising benefits of medication, preventing
harm, obtaining information from individuals (e.g. side effects, previous
adverse reactions, personal preferences); information from the
manufacturer/ pharmacist (e.g. timing of doses, storage,
contraindications, side effects, adverse reactions, precautions needed by
care workers); information from organisation (e.g. agreed ways of
working).
1.3 Explain why it is important to gain the individual's consent
prior to administering medication
Important gaining the individual’s consent before administering
medication: Adhering with agreed ways of working; obtaining informed
consent; promoting individual's rights and action to take if this is not
possible; respecting rights of the individual to give consent to medication
etc.
1.4 Identify the information that should be given to individuals
to enable them to give valid consent
Information that should be given to individuals: Why medication is
necessary, benefits, possible side effects, risks of adverse reactions,
how medication is taken, how long the medication will be required for and
implications of not taking medication.
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2.Understand how medication is
administered safely and in a way that
meets individual needs
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1.5 Explain why it is important to agree with the individual:
• the medication to be taken
• the support to be provided in relation to their own needs
and preferences
Importance of agreeing with the individual: Covering: the specific
medication to be taken, the support to be provided in relation to the
needs/ preferences of the individual, respecting individual’s contribution
to their own care/support, self-medication and changes to condition/
support needs.
1.6 Describe how and why the following should be checked
prior to administering medication:
• identity of individual
• Medication Administration Record (MAR)
• medication
• equipment
• environment
Checks prior to administering medication: To include: following agreed
ways of working, reasons, ways to confirm identity, suitable
environments, correct medications, doses at correct time/ time interval,
administration routes, special precautions, labelling, the Medication
Administration Record (MAR), updating records etc.
1.7 Describe the hygiene precautions that should be taken
when preparing to administer medication in relation to:
• the individual receiving medication
• self and others who may be affected
Hygiene precautions: Following agreed ways of working, hygiene
procedures, using standard precautions to minimise/ prevent infection
and cross infection (e.g. hand washing, use of personal protective
equipment) correct disposal (e.g. bags, sharps bins).
1.8 Explain why it is important to ensure that the correct
dose, of the correct medication, is given to the correct
person at the correct time, by the correct route or method
Importance of ensuring that the correct dose, of the correct medication, is
given to the correct person at the correct time, by the correct route or
method: Including: protecting individuals from harm, maximising benefits
of medication and potential consequences of not following instructions.
2.1 Describe a range of aids and equipment available for
administering medicine
Range of aids/ equipment available for administering medicine: E.g.
medicine pots, measuring spoons, oral syringes, nebulisers and
Monitored Dosage Systems (MDS).
2.2 Give positive and negative points of using drug
administration systems
Using drug administration systems:
Positive points: Efficient for regular medication, monitoring use for
organising repeat prescriptions, providing evidence of administration of
dose, accuracy and recording of self-medication.
Negative points: Restricted to tablets/ capsules only, not suitable for all
medicines or for medication taken ‘as and when' or which is varied.
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3.Understand how to support individuals
to administer their own medication
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2.3 Give examples of special instructions that might need to
be followed when giving medication
Special instructions: Covering: times to be taken (night, morning, before,
with or after food), methods (swallowed whole, with water) and varying
according to test results (blood tests, checking of pulse rates).
2.4 Describe how to support individuals to take medication
whilst promoting privacy, dignity, hygiene, safety and
active participation
Supporting individuals to take medication whilst promoting privacy,
dignity, hygiene, safety and active participation: To include: agreed ways
of working, confidentiality, reference to care/ support plans, sensitivity to
personal, religious and cultural preferences and use of reminders/
compliance aids.
2.5 Explain how to record the outcomes following
administration of medication
Recording the outcomes following administration of medication: To
include: agreed ways of working, MAR, outcomes, taken/ declined
medication, difficulties experienced when/ after taking medication
(vomiting after taking medication, adverse reaction) etc.
2.6 Give examples of when it may be necessary to seek
additional support and guidance and who should provide
it
Additional support and guidance and who should provide it: To include:
when individual declines/ cannot take the medication, adverse reactions,
difficulties with instructions, mislaid/ spilled medication and who to
contact (managers, nurses, senior staff, prescribers, pharmacists etc.).
2.7 Identify the key requirements of legislation and guidance
in relation to the administration of medicine
Key requirements of legislation and guidance:
Legislation: Relevant sections of Care Standards Act 2000 (receipt,
storage and administration of medicines); Medicines Act 1968 and
amendments, Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 (Controlled Drugs) and
amendment etc.
Guidance: Administration and Control of Medicines in Care Homes and
Children’s Services June 2003, The Handling of Medicines in Social Care
(Royal Pharmaceutical Society 2007), Standards for Medicines
Management (Nursing and Midwifery Council 2004); internal codes of
conduct, guidelines and procedures.
3.1 Explain why it is important to support an individual to
administer their own medication
Importance of supporting an individual to administer their own
medication: To include: individual as active partner in own care and
support; maintain dignity; encourage independence and support freedom
of choice.
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3.2 Identify key aspects of legislation and guidelines related
to self-administration of medication
Key aspects of legislation and guidelines related to self-administration of
medication:
Legislation: Relevant sections of Care Standards Act 2000 (receipt,
storage and administration of medicines); Medicines Act 1968 and
amendments, Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 (Controlled Drugs) and
amendment,
Guidance: Administration and Control of Medicines in Care Homes and
Children’s Services June 2003, The Handling of Medicines in Social Care
(Royal Pharmaceutical Society 2007), Standards for Medicines
Management (Nursing and Midwifery Council 2004); internal codes of
conduct, guidelines and procedures.
3.3 Explain how to carry out a risk assessment for an
individual who prefers to administer their own medication
Risk assessment for an individual who prefers to administer their own
medication: E.g. recognising hazards, persons at risk of harm, controlling
risk, evaluating risk and recording support required in the care plan.
3.4 Outline the conditions that must be in place when a client
self-medicates
Conditions that must be in place when a client self-medicates: To
include: requirements for risk assessment and regular reassessment,
consent of clients and client understanding of how to store medication;
ensuring the client receives information about: medication, storage,
common side effects and how to address them, special instructions and
obtaining further supplies; aids: alarm clock, reminders, enlarged labels,
eye drop dispensers etc.
3.5 Describe the records that must be kept in relation to selfmedication
Records that must be kept in relation to self-medication: To include:
following agreed ways of working, recording of dates and quantities of
medication given to individuals, regular monitoring of the individual’s
condition, review and reassessment.
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4.Understand the procedures to follow
when there are problems with the
administration of medication
5.Understand how the effects of
medication are monitored
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4.1 Describe the actions to be taken in line with agreed ways
of working in relation to the following situations:
• errors administering medication
• individual declines prescribed medication
• medication is compromised
• discrepancies in records
• administering controlled drugs
Actions to be taken in line with agreed ways of working:
Errors administering medication: Incorrect dose, missed dose, wrong
individual; recording and reporting using MAR/ incident report form.
Prescribed medication declined: Follow written procedure; record on
MAR; consulting managers, nurses and senior staff.
Compromised medication: Why it is compromised (e.g. out-of-date,
damaged, tampered with, incorrect storage), where to seek advice and
reporting and recording actions.
Discrepancies in records: E.g. label attached by the pharmacist or
dispensing GP has been changed, ambiguous instructions on MAR;
where to seek advice and reporting and recording actions.
Administering controlled drugs: Following agreed common procedures
for all drugs, checking identity of the individual, checking medication,
dose, time and administration route; recording both on MAR and
Controlled Drug (CD) record book; updating balance remaining for each
drug residential setting witnessed by trained member of staff.
4.2 Outline how to support an individual who has difficulty
taking medication in the form it has been prescribed
Support an individual taking medication: Covering: care/support plans
and the range of options which have been agreed with prescriber (e.g.
offer water/ food, split or crush tablet).
4.3 Explain how to support the best interests of individuals
who are unable to consent to prescribed medication
Supporting the best interests of individuals unable to consent to
medication: To include: agreed ways of working; Mental Capacity Act
2005; assessment by healthcare professional of the individual; taking
into account case history, cultural or religious values; documenting
decisions.
5.1 Describe how to monitor the effects of medication on the
individual and the condition it has been prescribed for
Monitoring effects of medication: To include: agreed ways of working,
recording/ reporting, regular observations (pulse, blood pressure and
breathing) and feedback by individual.
5.2 Identify common side effects of widely used medicines
Common side effects of widely used medicines: E.g. antibiotics,
antihistamines, aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, diuretics,
antidepressants and statins.
5.3 Explain what is meant by an adverse reaction
Adverse reaction: Including: intolerance, allergic reactions and reactions
outside of documented side effects.
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5.4 Describe the actions to be taken if side effects or an
adverse reaction to medication are suspected
Actions to be taken on side effects: To include: agreed ways of working,
who to seek advice from and accurately recording actions taken.
5.5 Outline how medication reviews should be carried out in
line with national guidelines
How medication reviews should be carried out in line with national
guidelines: Following National Service Framework/ National Minimum
Standards; covering: confidential regular reviews doctor or nurse, annual
reviews for clients over 75/ on long term medication, individuals raising
concerns, recording outcomes in medical records etc.
5.6 Explain how the outcomes of monitoring should be
recorded and reported
Recording and reporting outcomes of monitoring: To include: following
agreed ways of working; MAR, care/ support plans etc.
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Unit 3 Guidance on Delivery and Assessment
Delivery
This unit develops the learner’s knowledge and understanding of the preparations to be taken prior to administering medication, how medication is administered safely and in a way that
meets individual needs, how to support individuals to administer their own medication, the procedures to follow when there are problems with the administration of medication and how the
effects of medication are monitored.
Assessment
This unit is about knowledge based on Skills for Health National Occupational Standards.
Assessment is by portfolio (internally set and marked and quality assured by IQ).
An Achievement Record for this qualification is available from the website/ on request. All assessment criteria must be met and mapped and the location of the evidence must be indicated in
the achievement record.
All learning outcomes must be assessed using methods appropriate to the assessment of knowledge and understanding; these can be assessed by a variety of methods including:
•
•
•
•
•
Question and answer test
Multiple choice questions
Question and answer verbal (ensure records are kept)
Essay
Other
Links
This unit maps to Skills for Health National Occupational Standards - units CHS2, CHS3 and units HSC21, HSC 24, HSC221 and HSC236.
Additional information
1.1 ‘specialised techniques’: e.g. injections, rectal administration, medication via PEG tube, inhalation, Monitored Dose Systems
5.5 ‘national guidelines’: e.g. National Service Framework, National Minimum Standards
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Unit 4: Record-keeping and audit processes for medication administration and storage F/601/9578
Guided Learning Hours:
Unit Level:
Unit Credit:
24
2
3
Unit grid: Learning outcomes/Assessment Criteria/Content
Learning Outcome - The learner will:
Assessment Criteria - The learner can:
Contents:
1. Understand the audit process in
relation to medication transactions and
stock levels
1.1
Describe the requirements for medication transactions and
stock levels in relation to:
• the role of the pharmacist
• manufacturer's instructions
• organisational policies
• inspection and external audit
• legal requirements
Requirements for medication transactions and stock levels: To
include: role of pharmacist (dispensing prescriptions, repeat
prescriptions and pharmacy collection services); manufacturers'
instructions (contraindications, expiry date, patient information leaflet,
side effects storage); organisational policies and procedures (national/
local guidelines, agreed ways of working, recording stock levels);
external audit/ inspection by Care Quality Commission Standards,
agreed ways of working to meet requirements of Medication
Administration Records (MAR) and legal requirements (Care
Standards Act 2000 and the Medicines Act 1968).
1.2
Explain how medication is recorded on:
• receipt
• administration
• disposal
How medication is recorded: Including: on receipt (checking date,
matching the prescription name to the name on the medication,
matching the medication to the prescription, expiry dates, storage,
dose, timing and route of administration); administration (noting date
and time, if medication is declined, any assistance given and
signatures); disposal (name of medication, reason for disposal, date
and method of disposal).
2.1
Describe the key aspects of record keeping in an
environment where medicine is used in relation to:
• documentation
• correct recording
• signatures
Key aspects of record keeping: To include: following agreed ways of
working; recording requests for medication, medication received,
administered or destroyed; documentation (MAR completed legibly in
ink, correctly and clearly to prevent misunderstanding, signatures and
dates) and accurate recording at all stages (on receipt, at
administration, if disposed of with signatures and dates and second
signature for Controlled Drugs).
2. Understand how information is
recorded and confidentiality maintained
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3. Understand own role in relation to
accountability and responsibility
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2.2
Outline the requirements of the regulatory authorities in
relation to medication record keeping
Requirements of the regulatory authorities: To include: record keeping
in line with the requirements of Care Quality Commission Regulations
2009; Misuse of Drugs Act Regulations 2001 for Controlled Drugs,
Controlled Drugs record book etc.
2.3
Identify what information needs to be recorded when
compiling a medicine profile for a client
Information to be recorded when compiling a medicine profile: Name;
age; weight; any known allergies; all medicines prescribed (including
details of dose, duration of course of treatment, administration route
and special instructions); previous side effects experienced or adverse
reactions and details of support required for self medication.
2.4
Explain why all records relating to medicines must be kept
up-to-date
Records relating to medicines must be kept up to date: To include:
preventing errors/ harm to clients from missed or duplicate doses;
informing changes in condition, side effects or adverse reactions;
allowing for the correct client, medication, dose etc to be tracked;
stock control and meeting legal, organisational and regulatory
requirements.
2.5
Outline the key points of legislation relating to confidentiality
in relation to:
• who records what, where and when
• who has access to records
• individual rights
• maintaining confidentiality
Key points of legislation relating to confidentiality of records: Covering
relevant sections from current legislation: e.g. Access to Health
Records Act 1990, Data Protection Act 1998, Human Rights Act 1998
etc.
2.6
Identify own role in maintaining confidentiality and keeping
information secure
Own role in maintaining confidentiality and keeping information
secure: To include: adhering to agreed ways of working, showing
respect for the rights of individuals, storing records correctly (including
MAR) etc.
3.1
Define the terms ‘accountability’ and ‘responsibility’
Accountability: The requirement to account for own conduct and justify
it to others.
Responsibility: Making decisions on own actions, acting
independently.
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3.2
Explain the importance of accountability in relation to
medication
Importance of accountability in relation to medication: Meeting legal
requirements of proper patient care; ensuring care is auditable;
evidence of practice: medication given, confirming client identity,
details of dose, duration of course of treatment, administration route
and special instructions, previous side effects experienced or adverse
reactions and details of support required for self medication.
3.3
Describe the responsibilities of different people involved with
storage or administration of medication
Responsibilities of different people involved with the storage or
administration of medication: To include: care workers, clients, nurses,
pharmacists; following agreed ways of working; working within limits of
own responsibility; responsibilities for administration; record keeping;
ensuring storage complies with manufacturers' instructions; auditing of
stock (e.g. keep account/ audit stocks); disposal of unwanted/ expired/
damaged medications; correct storage of Controlled Drugs store;
administration (following instructions on MAR, with reference to care
plan) etc.
3.4
Outline the potential consequences of not following agreed
ways of working as set out by an employer
Potential consequences of not following agreed ways of working:
Clients not receiving full effects of medication; adverse effects or side
effects increased; serious or life-threatening harm to clients;
disciplinary/ legal action; organisational failure to meet Care Quality
Commission Standards; organisation performs badly or fails inspection
etc.
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Unit 4 Guidance on Delivery and Assessment
Delivery
This unit develops the learner’s knowledge of the audit process in relation to medication transactions and stock levels, how information is recorded and confidentiality maintained and their
own role in relation to accountability and responsibility.
Assessment
This unit is about knowledge based on Skills for Health National Occupational Standards.
Assessment is by portfolio (internally set and marked and quality assured by IQ).
An Achievement Record for this qualification is available from the website/ on request. All assessment criteria must be met and mapped and the location of the evidence must be indicated in
the achievement record.
All learning outcomes must be assessed using methods appropriate to the assessment of knowledge and understanding; these can be assessed by a variety of methods including:
•
•
•
•
•
Question and answer test
Multiple choice questions
Question and answer verbal (ensure records are kept)
Essay
Other
Links
This unit maps to Skills for Health National Occupational Standards - units CHS1, CHS2, CHS3 and units HSC21, HSC 24, HSC221 and HSC236.
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Resources
Training Resources
Centres may use their own, or published learner support materials in delivering the qualification. Whatever support materials
centres choose to use, they should ensure that their delivery methodology adequately prepares the learner for assessment.
IQ endorses published training resources and learner support materials by submitting the materials to a rigorous and robust
quality assurance process, thus ensuring such materials are relevant, valid and appropriately support the qualification.
Resources and Useful websites
Health and Safety Executive
http://www.hse.gov.uk/
Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland
http://www.hseni.gov.uk
The National Archives (For all UK legislation)
http://www.legislation.gov.uk
Equalities and Human Rights Commissions
http://www.equalityhumanrights.com
Skills for Health
http://www.skillsforhealth.org.uk/
Care Quality Commission
http://www.cqc.org.uk/
Association of Health Care Professionals
http://www.ahcpuk.org
Register of Regulated Qualifications
http://register.ofqual.gov.uk/
British National Formulary
http://www.bnf.org
Electronic medicines Compendium
http://www.medicines.org.uk
Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain
http://www.rpharms.com/
Patient UK
http://www.patient.co.uk/
MIMS
http://www.mims.co.uk/
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