Medicines management: good

S3. How does the service make sure that there are sufficient numbers of suitable staff to support people to stay safe and meet their needs?

Characteristics of services we would rate as good in this area

Where the service is responsible for medicines, staff meet good practice standards described in relevant national guidance, including in relation to non-prescribed medicines.

The service is clear about its responsibilities and role in relation to medicines. People receive their medicines as prescribed. The service involves them in regular medicines reviews and risk assessments, and supports them to be as independent as possible.

Cultural and dietary considerations about medicines are recorded and acted on.

Staff manage medicines consistently and safely. Medicines are stored correctly, and disposed of safely. Staff keep accurate medicines records.

Staff work effectively with each other, their managers, other agencies and carers to share the responsibility for giving medicines to people.

The service follows correct procedures to protect people with limited capacity to make decisions about their own care, treatment and support, when medicines need to be given without their knowledge or consent, or when people require specialist medication.

The service recognises when people are or may be able to manage their own prescribed or over-the-counter medicines. It creates safe, monitored ways for them to do so, working with others when necessary and appropriate.