There are no hacks. When you work around, this is when errors occur. Follow the checks, double checks, use your references. The only thing you can do to expedite is to have your supplies ready when starting
Make separate baggies for each patient and write their room # on it, fill with all the supplies you’ll need for their pass. Don’t pull different people’s meds at once bc that’s how errors happens, but you can add their meds to their baggie when it’s time to go to their room. Saves you some time going back & forth to supply rooms.
You can give your meds up to a hour early and a hour late, so if you have a 8pm med and 10pm med give at 9pm. Also if you have 8am meds and a random med at 10 go to that patient last ( if patient is ok ). Before entering pts room check to see if any meds are due so you can multi task. Also change med times to when pts normally take their medications - much easier when pt is discharged to be on their home schedule. If there is an outliner med - Change it to standard medication times
Make a sheet you carry in your pocket that lists your patients and their meds and times due. Circle the times. Cross them off after each med is given. Set your phone for the times meds are due if you’re allowed to use your phone. We used all computer charting so nothing else to refer to. This gives a visual and helps avoid missing a due med. Of course, always follow the Rs and avoid distractions when passing meds.
I'm not sure if it would be considered a hack but knowing the preferences or little things that will make the med pass easier which will lead to a quicker pass and happier clients are much easier in all aspects of their care, it's worth the effort. Examples, some ppl have ways they take their meds at home and if you know they like to finish the morning paper before meds and they prefer tap water, not ice water with their AM meds, it will save you some steps and make them feel like they matter, it will make a world of difference in their stay and in your day!!
I agree Tina! Very well stated. I learned this simple trick last winter in Fort Defiance, AZ and have incorporated it into my daily practice at the bedside. Makes life much smoother on those hectic mornings.
