ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

Elements define the essential outcomes

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1. Minimise potential risk to ensure safe administration of medications.

1.1 Refer to drugs and poisons schedules and classifications as determined by law.

1.2 Identify the purpose and function of prescribed medicine and intravenous (IV) therapy.

1.3 Identify pharmacology and substance incompatibilities in relation to specific situations involving medication administration, blood and blood products.

2. Prepare for medication administration and infusion of IV fluids.

2.1 Explain the process of medication administration or IV fluid infusion to the person, and ensure their readiness and understanding.

2.2 Identify correct administration route or site for each medication or IV fluid to be administered, and position the person appropriately.

2.3 Consider the effect of commonly used medications and IV fluids on the body before medication administration and IV infusion.

2.4 Calculate accurate dosages and IV infusion rates for administration of drugs.

2.5 Prepare medications in accordance with legislative and jurisdictional requirements and organisation policy and procedures.

2.6 Identify medication administration techniques and precautions specific to the person’s situation and as per medication orders.

2.7 Prepare blood and blood products for blood transfusions according to organisation policy and procedures.

3. Administer and store medication.

3.1 Administer medication or IV fluid to the person applying the ‘Rights of Medication’ concept and in accordance with the jurisdictional and legislative requirements and organisation policy and procedures.

3.2 Secure medications in a safe manner during medication administration.

3.3 Apply quality practices in management and use of medications, and undertake risk assessment practices that relate to medication administration.

3.4 Report to the registered nurse a person’s refusal of medication or IV therapy or suspected incomplete medication ingestion.

3.5 Ensure medication and blood and blood products are stored, handled and disposed of according to organisation policy and procedures and manufacturers’ instructions.

4. Monitor and evaluate a person’s response to administered medication, IV fluids and blood and blood products.

4.1 Document and monitor observations of the person’s response and whether intended outcome of administered medications, IV fluids and blood and blood products is achieved.

4.2 Recognise, record and report acute and delayed adverse reactions of the person to medications, and implement emergency actions within own role responsibility.

4.3 Record, report and evaluate fluid and electrolyte imbalances, and monitor the effect on the person of medicines commonly administered with IV fluids.

4.4 Remove IV cannula according to organisation policy and procedures

4.5 Provide educative information to the person, their family or carer concerning the administration of medicines including possible side effects.

5. Assess effectiveness of pain-relieving therapy.

5.1 Observe and question the person to identify signs of pain or discomfort.

5.2 Clarify the location and nature of pain or discomfort, taking into account factors that may influence the person’s perception of pain.

5.3 Ensure consistency in interpreting observations and evaluating the person’s pain using the pain assessment scale.

5.4 Identify a range of prescribed medications and complementary strategies that may assist in alleviating pain and discomfort.

5.5 Assess and manage effectiveness of pain-relieving medication and non-medication therapies for the person experiencing pain.

5.6 Record observations of the person and own evaluation the effectiveness of pain management strategies.