Giving Medicines
Medicines are dangerous if not given safely, correctly, and on time. These lessons explain all methods for taking or giving medicines and the precautions you should follow.
Giving Medicines Safely
When you care for someone in the home, medicine safety is one of your most important jobs. This care lesson teaches you how to prepare and give medicines safely and what to do when a person has trouble taking medicines. The lesson offers information about side effects and allergies from medicines.
Inhalers
A person with chronic lung disease frequently uses medicine breathed in through the mouth to widen the airways making breathing easier. This lesson explains how to use inhalers safely and correctly to help control their disease.
Nebulizers
People with chronic lung problems often use nebulizers to deliver medicine in the form of a mist into their breathing passages. The medicines widen airway passages, reduce inflammation, and help make it easier to cough up mucous. This lesson explains the reasons for using a nebulizer, the effects of the medicines, and how to correctly use and clean a nebulizer.
Rectal Suppositories
If you provide care to a person who needs a rectal suppository, you need to know how to insert it correctly, the expected effects, and any problems to look for. Giving a suppository is safe and easy to do.
Subcutaneous Injections
If you care for a person who takes medicines by injection (a shot), you need to learn how to give an injection correctly and how to avoid injury to the person you care for. This care lesson teaches you how to use a syringe and an injection pen, how to give an injection, and what to look for after giving a medicine.