MEDICATION PROCEDURES

1. Prescription: Medications are usually prescribed by a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or nurse practitioner, based on the patient's condition, symptoms, and medical history.

2. Reading the label: Carefully read the medication label, including the name of the medication, dosage instructions, warnings, and any special storage requirements.

3. Dosage instructions: Follow the prescribed dosage instructions provided by your healthcare professional. This includes the amount of medication to take, frequency (how often to take it), and duration (how long to take it). It's important not to exceed the recommended dose unless instructed by a healthcare professional.

4. Route of administration: Medications can be administered through various routes, including oral (swallowing a tablet or liquid), topical (applied to the skin), inhalation (breathing in a medication), intravenous (IV) injection, intramuscular (IM) injection, or subcutaneous (under the skin) injection. The specific procedure will depend on the route of administration.

5. Oral medication: If taking medication orally, follow these general steps:

   • Wash your hands before handling the medication.
   • Take the medication with a full glass of water unless directed otherwise.
   • Swallow the tablet or capsule whole; do not crush, chew, or break it unless instructed to do so.
   • If taking liquid medication, use a measuring device (e.g., a syringe or dosing cup) to ensure accurate dosing.
   • Some medications may need to be taken with food or on an empty stomach, so follow the instructions provided.

6. Topical medication: If applying medication topically, follow these general steps:

   • Clean the affected area with mild soap and water, if applicable.
   • Use clean hands or a sterile applicator to apply the medication to the affected area.
   • Follow any specific instructions on the medication label, such as applying a thin layer or covering the area with a bandage, if needed.

7. Injections: If administering an injection, it's important to receive proper training from a healthcare professional. Injections can be given intravenously, intramuscularly, or subcutaneously. Follow these general steps:

   • Prepare the medication according to the instructions provided.
   • Cleanse the injection site with an alcohol swab.
   • Use a clean syringe and needle for each injection.
   • Administer the injection into the appropriate site, following the recommended technique.
   • Properly dispose of needles and syringes in a sharps container.

8. Inhalation medication: If using inhalation medication, follow these general steps:

   • Prepare the inhalation device according to the instructions provided (e.g., inserting a cartridge or loading the medication).
   • Breathe out fully, then bring the device to your mouth and create a tight seal around it.
   • Inhale deeply and slowly through the mouth while activating the device to release the medication.
   • Hold your breath for a few seconds, then breathe out slowly.

9. Storage: Store medications according to the instructions provided on the label. Some medications may require refrigeration, while others need to be kept at room temperature. Keep medications out of reach of children and pets.

Remember, this is a general overview, and specific medication procedures can vary. Always consult the medication label, follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional or pharmacist, and reach out to them if you