What is the medication decision tool?

This tool is designed to help you apply the Medication practice standard. The practice standard is principle-based, which means that it uses broad statements. You will need to use critical inquiry and your knowledge, skill and judgment when making decisions about medication practices.

This tool is divided into three sections representing the principles in the Medication practice standard:

  • authority
  • competence
  • safety

Each principle has a set of questions for you to consider when you are faced with a decision about your medication practice. Answering these questions and reflecting on your practice will help you decide the best course of action. Not all questions may apply to your situation.Medication Practice Standard: Authority, Competence, Safety

Authority

This principle provides information about when an order is required and what to look for in an order.

Ask yourself:

  • Does this medication practice require an order?
    • Is a controlled act involved?
    • Does other legislation impact whether I can perform this in my workplace setting?
  • Is the order clear, complete and appropriate?
  • Are there any workplace policies about the medication practice that I need to consider?

For more information on authority, review these CNO resources:

Competence

This principle involves making sure you have the knowledge, skill and judgment to safely perform a medication practice.

Ask yourself:

  • Am I the appropriate care provider? Do I have the knowledge, skill and judgment?
    • If you're not sure, consider what resources you need to answer this question. For example, look up drug references or best practice guidelines.
    • What evidence informs my practice?
    • What organizational policies might influence my practice?
  • Is the medication practice appropriate for my client?
  • Is the medication practice appropriate for my workplace setting?
    • Do I have the appropriate environmental supports, such as organizational guidelines, equipment and protocols, to administer and manage outcomes safely?
  • Do I need to develop a Learning Plan related to this medication practice? 

For more information on competence, review these CNO resources:

Safety

This principle provides information on promoting safe care.

Ask yourself:

  • Have I considered the risks, contraindications and adverse reactions?
    • What evidence informs my practice? (See the glossary in the Medication practice standard for the definition of evidence-informed.)
    • What are the strategies to minimize the risk of harm?
    • Are there supports to minimize harm if an adverse event occurs?
  • Do I need to collaborate or consult with others, such as the health care team or the client?
  • Have I provided the client with education?
    • Is the client informed?
    • Has the client or substitute decision-maker been involved in the care planning?
  • Are there system approaches available that support safe medication practices? For example, safe storage, reporting errors and strategies to reduce drug diversion.

For more information on safety, review these CNO resources:

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