Medication Awareness Training

This course supports best practice in medication management within care homes, domiciliary care, and other health and social care environments.

Specially tailored for those working with vulnerable individuals, the course focuses on minimising medication errors, understanding types of medications, and ensuring accurate documentation. It also highlights the importance of person-centred care and the safe storage and disposal of medicines.

Upon completion, learners will be equipped to contribute to safe medication practices and comply with CQC requirements and relevant legislation such as the Medicines Act 1968 and guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).

A certificate of completion will be awarded to successful learners.

Introduction to Medication Handling

• Importance of medication safety in care
• Overview of responsibilities for care staff

Understanding Medications

• Types of medications (prescription, over-the-counter, controlled drugs)
• Routes of administration (oral, topical, inhaled, etc.)
• Common side effects and allergic reactions

Legal and Regulatory Framework

• Overview of Medicines Act 1968, Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, and NICE guidelines
• Record-keeping and accountability
• Consent and capacity considerations

Safe Administration of Medications

• The “6 Rights” of medication administration
• Preventing and responding to medication errors
• Administering medications safely and with dignity

Storage and Disposal

• Secure storage of medications (including controlled drugs)
• Temperature control and expiry checks
• Safe disposal of unused or expired medication

Documentation and Reporting

• Accurate recording on MAR charts
• Reporting errors and near-misses
• Communication with other professionals and families

Supporting Service Users

• Promoting independence and choice in medication routines
• Handling refusal of medication
• Covert administration and when it may be legally appropriate

Course Assessment

• Multiple-choice test.
• Scenario-based discussions or practical simulation

By the end of this course, participants will:

• Understand the importance of safe medication practices in care settings
• Identify different types of medication and their methods of administration
• Be familiar with legal and regulatory requirements for medication handling
• Safely administer, store, and dispose of medications
• Accurately document medication administration and understand reporting procedures
• Support residents’ rights, dignity, and independence in relation to their medication