Self-administration schemes

Self-administration schemes

Schemes which allow patients to self-administer their medicines whilst in hospital have been attempted in selected groups or settings. The schemes have several purposes:

· a diagnostic role – checking to see if patients can cope with their medicines regimen

· an educational role – giving diminishing levels of support prior to discharge, allowing patients to gain skills and confidence with their medicines

· an empowering role – allowing patients to provide self-care as they would at home.

Schemes may also allow nursing staff to focus on other issues and mean that access to medicines is improved. This is particularly important where timing of doses can affect patient experience or safety, for example insulin use or analgesia. However, whilst these schemes may seem attractive, evidence of their benefits is limited and considerable effort may be required to assess patients’ suitability. Clinical pharmacists and pharmacy technicians can support nursing staff in establishing and running self-administration schemes. A POD scheme, though not essential, can be a useful precursor to such schemes.