Medication Storage, Safety, Record Keeping

All medications should be kept in their original containers, with the original labels intact, showing the medication and its dosage. Each container should be clearly labeled with the patient's name. Different states have different regulations concerning storage of medications, and in some states, a waiver can be obtained to store each patient's medications in their room in a locked cabinet (Pharmacy). This is also an acceptable storage method if it facilitates dispensing of medications for the nurses. Again, one person should be in charge of the keys to these cabinets, and preferably the cabinets should have one master key which opens all cabinets.

If a physician orders a medication to be administered to a patient in a specific way, then these directions must be followed exactly by the nurse administering the medication to the patient (Pharmacy). If the directions are not followed precisely, then this is a medication error and the nurse can be held accountable. If there is a question or a concern over the