On-line activity

'The administration of medicines is an important aspect of the professional practice of persons whose name are on the Council's register' (NMC 2007:4). The process requires thought and exercise of professional judgement and application of knowledge and skill (NMC 2007). Although all medications are prescribed by the doctor (or nurses, midwifes and specialist community public health practitioners with a recognised prescribing qualification) and dispensed by the pharmacist, the responsibility for their correct administration lies with the nurse/ODP, and as such you are accountable for your actions and omissions (NMC 2007). This includes 'preparing, checking and administrating medications, updating knowledge of medications, monitoring the effectiveness of treatment, reporting adverse reactions and teaching patients about their drugs' (O'Shea 1999: 496).