Administration of medicines in care homes (with nursing) for older people by care assistants

Description

Completed research projects.

Aims

The aims of this study were to

  • identify and appraise literature on the administration of medicines in nursing homes by care assistants focusing specifically on safety, training needs and processes
  • consider the context for the administration of medicines in nursing homes by care assistants through relevant legislation and policy documents
  • develop a guidance leaflet for the care home sector on the administration of medicines in nursing homes by care assistants
  • disseminate findings of the review and guidance in peer-reviewed publications and practice journals to engage providers with the findings.

Method

A ‘rapid review’ of literature on the administration of medicines in nursing homes by care assistants and related relevant legislation and policy documents (aims 1 and 2).  We adopted a streamlined approach to mapping out literature and policy in this area so that we can assemble best quality evidence to inform guidance (aim 3).  

The evidence report (aim 1 and 2) provides a summary of the literature, legislation and policy and can be accessed here

A guidance leaflet (aim 3) for care home providers on the administration of medicines in care homes by care assistants was developed and can be accessed here

Dissemination (aim 4) is ongoing following completion of the work in April 2016.

Background

Older people living in nursing homes are among the most vulnerable members of our society, reliant on nursing home staff for many of their everyday needs; including taking their prescribed medications.  Research has highlighted the importance of adopting appropriate medication procedures in care homes and NICE have published guidance on all aspects of managing medicines in care homes.  Yet the role of the care assistant in medication administration in nursing homes for older people is poorly articulated.  

People

Principal Investigator:
Professor Karen Spilsbury, University of Leeds 

Co-investigators:
Dr Dave Alldred, University of Leeds
Professor John Baker, University of Leeds

Funding body: Department of Health Care Sector Nursing Taskforce (£7,944)

Contact: Professor Karen Spilsbury, University of Leeds

Publications and outputs

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/518298/Medicines_in_care_homes_A.pdf