Hampshire Shared Lives Scheme Policy and Procedure 27
Shared Lives Guidance
Medication
1.
Introduction
The Hampshire Shared Lives Scheme enables each person to take responsibility for their
own medication wherever possible. However if this is not possible we will ensure that
Shared Lives Carers understand the principles behind the safe handling of medication, as
well as the Scheme’s procedures for the control, administration, recording, safe keeping,
handling and disposal of medicines. Training will be provided.
2.
How will this happen?
Shared Lives Carers will receive training in the administration, safe-handling and recording
of medication, as well as storage of medication and safe disposal.
In advance of any Shared Lives arrangement being made with a Shared Lives Carer, full
information will be made available regarding medication taken by the person they are to
support. If the Shared Lives Carer is to undertake or assist with any medical procedure
the person requires, specific training will be given by a competent medical professional
and the Shared Lives Carer’s competence to undertake the required role will be verified
and documented by that professional. Full information regarding an individual’s medication
and any medical procedures they require will be recorded in their Service User Plan.
If a person has been self-medicating prior to entering into a Shared Lives arrangement, it
is good practice to re-assess the person’s ability to continue to self-medicate.
Agreement will need to be reached on the Service User’s and Carers’ areas of
responsibility including:
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Safe storage and handling of medication
Disposal of medication
Reporting side effects of medication
Attendance at medication reviews
Reporting any failure or refusal to take medication
Incidents of overdose
Use of over the counter and homeopathic remedies (effects on prescribed
medication)
Support will always be available to the Service User who is able to self-medicate in order
to promote their independence. This information will be recorded in the Service User Plan
and risk assessments.
Information about a person’s medication should always be treated as confidential.
Wherever possible permission to share information with others should always be sought
from the person.
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Hampshire Shared Lives Scheme Policy and Procedure 27
If there are any concerns regarding a Service User’s medication information and advice
must always be sought from:
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GP
Pharmacy
Community Psychiatric Nurse
Care Plan/Risk Assessment
Care Manager/Care Worker
And information recorded on medication sheets
The person’s dignity and privacy and preferences will be respected when they are given or
taking medicines. The person has a right to give or withhold consent for any medical
treatment or examinations. Shared Lives Carer(s) understand that they cannot do this on
any person’s behalf and nor can anyone else. Shared Lives Carers must communicate
with all appropriate parties. If the person is unable to make decisions or give informed
consent themselves, this will be discussed with a person’s doctor or dentist (and the
person’s representative, when appropriate) to agree a way forward that is within the law
and in the person’s best interests. In these situations we will follow guidance and relevant
legislation including:
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The Mental Capacity Act 2005 Code of Practice
Best Interest Decisions
Community Treatment Orders
Advanced Statements