Nursing Component Task
Nursing procedures & clinical learning

Registered Mental Health Nursing (RMN)

EDUCATING A PSYCHIATRIC PATIENT ON MEDICATION PRIOR TO DISCHARGE

This is the process of teaching the patient and significant others to gain knowledge about his/her medication(s). This is to inform and remind them of proper ways to self-manage care and avoid non-essential re-admissions. Patient’s education on medication, should not be limited only to time of discharge but can also be carried out while the patient is still on admission.

Purpose

  • Enhance patient’s empowerment and medication adherence
  • Promote early recovery
  • Prevent medication errors and minimize complications
  • Keep patient and significant others aware of side effects of medications and report accordingly

Equipment

  • Table
  • Chairs
  • Patient’s medication
  • Serene environment
  • Patient/s treatment sheet
  • Patient’s folder (Electronic/Manual)

Procedure steps

  • Establish rapport (refer procedure) and explain procedure to patient and relative(s) / significant other(s)
  • Put patient in a desired position either sitting or lying down
  • Sit comfortably on a chair by patient’s side
  • Use language patient understands and speak audibly
  • Ensure enabling and relaxed environment
  • Maintain privacy and individuality of patient
  • Involve patient and relative(s)/ significant other(s)
  • Assess patient’s previous knowledge
  • Show type of medication(s) to patient
  • Inform patient about method of medication(s) administration
  • Instruct patient on the dosage of medication(s) to take at a time
  • Explain action(s) of the medication(s)
  • Describe the desired effect(s) as well as the side effect(s) of the medication (s)
  • Instruct patient to report to hospital when adverse side effect(s) occur
  • Teach patient how to store medication(s) at home safely
  • Explain the importance of review/follow-up care
  • Encourage patient to ask questions and respond appropriately
  • Express appreciation to patient and relative(s)/ significant other(s)
  • Document procedure in the nurses’ notes/patient’s folder

References and further reading

Educational resource only. Follow current Nursing and Midwifery Council guidance, local institutional protocols, scope of practice, and clinical supervision.

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