What is self-administration?

Self-administration is a scheme in place on this ward that allows you to take responsibility for taking your own medicine rather than a nurse giving them to you.

Do I have to take responsibility for taking my own medications whilst in hospital?

No, you do not have to participate in the scheme; you can also request to come off self-administration at any time during your stay in hospital.

What are the benefits of self-administration?

Taking your medicines yourself whilst in hospital will;

• Help you develop a better understanding of your medicines
• Help you become or remain familiar with how and when to take your medicines in a supportive environment prior to being discharged from hospital.

How does self-administration work?

A nurse, doctor, pharmacist or pharmacy technician will talk you through the process. They will need to make sure you are well enough to take part.

You will be asked some questions about your current medication, what the dose is, how many times you take it in a day and what you would do if you missed a dose.

Your medicines will be placed in the medicine locker, and you may be given the key to the locker so you can manage your own medicines independently. Any medicines that cannot be self-administered will be identified and discussed with you; these will be administered by the nurse.

Regular reviews will take place to make sure that you are happy with the scheme and well enough to continue taking responsibility.

What are my responsibilities for self-administration?

• To keep the medicine locker locked at all times and keep the key safe.
• Always check the medicines before you take them to make sure you have the right medicines.
• Do not allow any other patients or visitors to have access to your medicines.
• If you are unsure about any of your medicines, please speak to a member of staff before you take them.
• When you are being discharged make sure you return the locker key to a member of the nursing staff.