Medicines Management Policy - Dudley Primary Care Trust

Summary
Medication is widely used in the health service to improve health, however there is a
significant amount of legislation concerning its use while professional bodies have also
issued good practice guidance on systems and processes. This policy describes the
procedures and good practice that should be used when providing medication to a
patient whether by prescribing, supplying or administering a product. It covers the
legal and professional standards that are expected of different staff groups and the
personal responsibility involved. It covers all aspects of the process from accurate
prescription writing to safe administration of products. It been developed with the
assistance of other partners including Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council and
Dudley Group of Hospitals Foundation Trust to ensure that it is consistent with local
arrangements where possible.
This Policy should be read in conjunction with:
1. The sections on 'Guidance on Prescribing' and 'Prescription writing' in the BNF
(most recent edition)
2. The Nursing and Midwifery Council Guidance for the administration of
medicines (February 2008).
3. The Nursing and Midwifery Council Code of professional conduct (April 2008)
4. The Nursing and Midwifery Council Standards of proficiency for nurse and
midwife prescribers (April 2006)
5. Medicines, Ethics and Practice: a guide for pharmacists (most recent edition)
6. Local policies and formularies as detailed in the document (These can be found
in the Policies and Procedures section of the intranet)
NB: This is a general policy covering any member of staff in PCT dealing with
medicines. Individuals have a level of personal responsibility to read and
understand this policy. Non-compliance with this policy may lead to
performance management and disciplinary consequences. In very serious
matters professional, civil and criminal legal consequences may occur also.
Some areas are covered by more detailed local policies. It is the responsibility
of managers and staff to ensure they follow the more detailed policies where
they are applicable.
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