Administration of Oral Medication (Tablets and Capsules)

Procedure

1. Wash hands and check the prescription against the rights: patient, drug, dose, route, time, documentation and the right to refuse.
2. Check the drug name, strength and expiry date, and confirm allergy status.
3. Confirm the patient can swallow and is not nil by mouth.
4. Dispense the tablet into the pot without touching it, and never crush an enteric-coated or slow-release tablet.
5. Identify the patient using two identifiers at the bedside.
6. Sit the patient upright and offer a full glass of water.
7. Stay and confirm the medicine has been swallowed.
8. Record the dose and time immediately, and note any refusal with the reason.
9. Observe for the intended effect and for adverse reactions.