Safe Medication Management and Review

Effective medication management can present a considerable challenge for older adults taking an assortment of medications for various ailments. It is reported that almost 90% of people over the age of 65 are taking some sort of medication. Just shy of two-thirds of the senior population is taking multiple medications at any given time. 

Making sure all medications are taken correctly and on time can get very confusing, and if not properly managed, even dangerous.

Conflicting Medications

Some medications when taken concurrently can have negative effects when combined. Also, if medications are not taken as prescribed they may lose the desired effect. In some cases, two medications may offset each other losing their potency and have the capacity to cause further health issues. When beginning a new medication, always consult your doctor or healthcare professional to discuss all prescriptions and supplements currently being taken to prevent harmful conflicts.

Improperly Administered Medications

If medications are being taken incorrectly, or are not compatible with each other, it can lead to ineffective treatment or additional health conditions. Examples of improperly taken medications include:

• Incorrect dosage – Forgetting doses or skipping doses when there is no pain or discomfort can disrupt the efficacy of the prescription. Conversely, increasing dosage to combat elevated pain is also not recommended.
• Prescription oversights – Your physician should have full insight into past and current medications to prevent conflicts.
• Improper administration – Medications should be taken exactly as directed (i.e. with food, before bed, etc.)

Promyse Care is an experienced home care agency providing customized home care services for seniors and their families. A wide variety of services are offered to help seniors continue to be independent at home, and to improve the quality of daily life. One of these services is Medication Management. 

Medication Management and Review

Promyse Home Care Medication Management service is designed to offer peace of mind, ensuring that your loved ones receive the right medications at the right time. It offers a comprehensive approach to managing medications to ensure there are no conflicts, and that medications being taken are doing what they are supposed to.

Medications can include:

• Prescribed medications
• Over the counter drugs
• Vitamins
• Supplements

A nurse case manager can help go through all of the various medications your loved one is taking to make sure everything is in proper order.

Regular medication assessments and reviews will be done to take the guess-work and stress out of taking multiple medications. These reviews are done in the comfort of your own home for convenience and practicality. 

Medication reviews typically include:

• Regular audits of practices and effects will be taken for each medication
• Eliminating any expired, unnecessary, ineffective, or adverse medications from the house
• Review of administration, directions, and instructions
• Clearing up questions or concerns about any medication

Medication management assistance ensures all medications are being properly administered, and medical instructions are being followed.

Advantages of Promyse Home Care Medication Reviews

There are many benefits to getting the assistance of medication management from a homecare professional. Some of these advantages are:

• Better organization
• Safe storage
• Nurse assistance
• Clarifying instructions and providing tips and education

Better Organization – Caregivers will help make an ongoing, up to date list that can be referenced at any time to avoid confusion. Medications should be stored safely, yet be easily accessible.

Safe Storage – Medications should be stored in a safe place in the house and should be kept in blister packs or dosette boxes (pill organizers) for clarity and convenience.

Nurse Assistance – Having a qualified nurse at your disposal is ideal for effective medication review and specialized administration. For example, insulin care for diabetics.

Education and Clarifying Instructions – You will get the complete rundown on consequences of missing a dose, possible side effects, and the designed effects of all medications.

Tips for Safe Medication Management

We believe in empowering our clients and their families with knowledge. Here are some tips for safe medication management:

1. Keep a Current Medication List: Always have an up-to-date list of all medications, including dosages and schedules.
2. Understand Your Medications: Know what each medication is for and be aware of potential side effects.
3. Regular Reviews: Regularly review your medication regimen with a healthcare professional.

Promyse Home Care healthcare professionals in Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge are not just experts in medication management; they are compassionate individuals who understand the importance of personal touch in healthcare. We collaborate with doctors and pharmacists to ensure that medication regimens are up-to-date and effective.