Chapter 4: Administering meds
Introduction
I really wasn’t comfortable at first with giving Dad all his meds. I just seemed like such a huge responsibility. It got easier once I figured out what I was supposed to do.
Giving medication is often an important part of caregiving. Medication can be given in different ways or by different routes (e.g., through the mouth, skin, nose, or rectum), and these may change over time if it becomes difficult for the person who is ill to take it in a specific way.
This chapter explores different routes of giving medications and provides helpful suggestions and “how to” videos.
Considerations
Check the expiry date and the label on the medication before giving it. This will help ensure you are giving the right medication at the right time in the right way. Though it may seem simple, it may help guard against accidents when you are tired, busy, or feeling stressed or upset. If you aren’t sure about the medication or how much to give, call the pharmacist or ask the healthcare provider before giving it.
