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PRN Medication Management Policy
1. Purpose
At {{org_field_name}}, we are committed to the safe, effective, and person-centred management of PRN (as required) medication to ensure the well-being of individuals receiving our support. This policy ensures compliance with the latest CQC regulations, the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines, the Medicines Act 1968, and the Mental Capacity Act 2005.
This policy outlines how PRN medication is assessed, prescribed, administered, recorded, monitored, and reviewed to maintain the safety, dignity, and rights of individuals in our Supported Living service.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all staff involved in the management of PRN medication, including support workers, registered nurses, team leaders, and managers. It covers all aspects of PRN medication use, including storage, administration, record-keeping, and safeguarding against misuse or overuse.
3. Related Policies
- SL21 – Medication Management and Administration Policy
- SL07 – Person-Centred Care Policy
- SL08 – Dignity and Respect Policy
- SL09 – Consent to Care Policy
- SL13 – Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy
- SL34 – Confidentiality and Data Protection (GDPR) Policy
- SL39 – Mental Capacity and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards Policy
4. Definition of PRN Medication
PRN (Pro Re Nata) medication is prescribed to be taken only when required, rather than at scheduled times. It is used to manage short-term symptoms, such as:
- Pain relief
- Anxiety or agitation
- Epileptic seizures
- Allergic reactions
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sleep disturbances
PRN medication must be administered only when clinically necessary, in accordance with the individual’s PRN protocol.
5. Assessment and Prescription of PRN Medication
- PRN medication must be prescribed by a qualified medical professional, such as a GP or psychiatrist.
- A PRN Protocol must be in place for each medication, detailing:
- The reason for use (indication)
- The minimum interval between doses
- The maximum dose within 24 hours
- The expected effects and monitoring requirements
- The non-medication alternatives that should be considered first
- The circumstances that require escalation to medical support
- Staff must ensure that individuals, where possible, understand and consent to PRN medication use.
6. Storage and Security
- PRN medication must be stored in a locked cabinet or medicine trolley, separate from regular medications.
- Each individual’s PRN medication must be labelled clearly with their name, dosage, expiry date, and administration instructions.
- Temperature monitoring of storage areas must be conducted regularly to ensure medication remains effective.
- Expired or discontinued PRN medication must be disposed of safely following the Medication Disposal Protocol.
7. Administration of PRN Medication
- PRN medication should be administered by trained and authorised staff in line with the individual’s PRN protocol.
- Before administration, staff must:
- Assess whether the medication is needed based on symptoms.
- Consider alternative interventions (e.g., relaxation techniques for anxiety before using sedatives).
- Verify the last dose given to ensure safe administration.
- During administration, staff must:
- Ensure the correct medication, dose, and method of administration.
- Explain to the individual why the medication is being given (where possible).
- Monitor for any adverse effects or reactions.
8. Record-Keeping and Documentation
- Every PRN administration must be recorded immediately in the individual’s Medication Administration Record (MAR) chart.
- The following details must be documented:
- Date and time of administration
- Reason for administration
- Dosage given
- Effects observed
- Any side effects or concerns
- If PRN medication is not effective, this must be recorded, and the situation escalated to a senior staff member or healthcare professional.
- If an individual refuses PRN medication, staff must respect their choice, record the refusal, and seek alternative support strategies if necessary.
9. Monitoring and Review
- PRN medication use must be reviewed regularly to ensure it remains necessary and effective.
- The individual’s keyworker or care coordinator must:
- Monitor patterns of PRN medication use.
- Identify if PRN medication is being used too frequently.
- Arrange a GP or specialist review if required.
- A full medication review must be conducted at least every six months or sooner if:
- The individual’s condition changes.
- There are concerns about effectiveness or side effects.
- Alternative strategies may be more appropriate.
10. Safeguarding Against PRN Misuse
- Staff must ensure that PRN medication is not used inappropriately, particularly:
- As a form of restraint or sedation.
- To control behaviours that could be managed through non-medication strategies.
- Any concerns about overuse, dependence, or incorrect administration must be reported as a safeguarding concern and escalated immediately.
- Staff should actively promote non-pharmacological interventions and least restrictive practices in behaviour management.
11. Staff Training and Competency
- All staff involved in PRN medication administration must complete mandatory medication training.
- Staff must demonstrate competence in PRN medication administration through observed assessments.
- Ongoing refresher training must be provided annually to ensure compliance with best practices and regulatory changes.
12. Confidentiality and Data Protection
- PRN medication records must be stored securely and accessed only by authorised personnel.
- Information regarding an individual’s medication use must be handled in accordance with GDPR and the Confidentiality and Data Protection Policy (SL34).
13. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required due to changes in legislation, CQC regulations, or clinical best practices.
Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
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