December 8, 2016: SafeMedicationUse.ca Newsletter - Know Your Medications before Leaving on a "Pass"
A hospital or a long-term care home may allow a "pass" or leave of absence. Passes allow patients or residents to go to appointments or to spend time with family and friends. Before you leave on a pass, it is important to learn about your medications, and how to take them properly.SafeMedicationUse.ca received a report from the daughter of a resident at an assisted living home. Before leaving on a pass, the nurse told the daughter that one of the inhalers was to be taken 4 times a day. From experience, the daughter knew that this inhaler was to be taken 2 times a day. The nurse then checked and confirmed that the daughter was right. This report highlights the importance of knowing your medications before leaving on a pass. Using a medication the wrong way can cause serious harm. Read more ...
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