Why Safe and Person-Centred Medication Practices Are Essential in Aged Care
Good medication management in residential aged care facilities (RACFs) is important for safe, person-centred care for older Australians. The Australian Government has set 15 Guiding Principles for Medication Management.
These principles follow national healthcare standards. They aim to promote the quality use of medicines in RACFs. These principles form the foundation for best practices in aged care medication safety, resident engagement, and regulatory compliance.
In this article, we will go through these 15 principles. We will explain how they help improve outcomes for aged care residents and staff.
1. Person-Centred Care
Healthcare providers must build medication management around the patient’s unique needs, preferences, and rights. Person-centred care includes emotional support, informed consent, respect, and the involvement of family and carers in decision-making. Residents have the right to partner in their care to the extent they choose.
2. Communicating About Medicines
Clear, accessible, and respectful communication about medications is essential. This includes considering health literacy. It also supports shared decision-making. We want residents and caregivers to feel empowered through advocacy and self-determination.
3. Clinical Governance of Medication Management
Every RACF should have robust clinical governance systems to ensure safe, effective medication practices. These systems support quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement in medicine use.
4. Evaluation and Quality Improvement
Facilities must routinely review mandatory medication management indicators, assess risks, and take corrective actions when necessary. Continuous quality improvement minimises medication-related incidents.
5. Information Resources
Access to up-to-date, evidence-based medicine information is critical. This includes resources for residents, families, staff, and healthcare providers to support informed decisions and safe medication use.
6. Selection of Medicines
The selection of medicines within RACFs must be evidence-based and aligned with national standards. Informed choices help ensure each medicine prescribed delivers genuine clinical benefit.
7. Complementary and Non-Prescription Medicines
Residents often use complementary or self-selected medications. RACFs must make sure these are used safely. They should provide proper guidance and documentation to lower the risk of interactions or side effects.
8. Nurse-Initiated Medicines
Where appropriate, facilities can implement protocols for the nurse-led initiation of certain non-prescription medications. The Medication Advisory Committee (MAC) must endorse policies and ensure they follow clinical guidelines.
9. Documentation of Medication Management
Accurate and current medication records are vital. Whether paper-based or electronic, medication charts must show what caregivers select, prescribe, dispense, and administer to each resident.
10. Medication Reconciliation
Medication reconciliation ensures accuracy when care is transferred or new medications are introduced. This process helps verify history, avoid errors, and confirm proper ordering and supply.
11. Medication Review
The care team and visiting healthcare professionals should regularly review medications. This helps improve therapy and reduce medication-related issues.
12. Continuity of Supply
Timely and uninterrupted access to medications—including during emergencies—is essential. RACFs should maintain emergency stock and coordinate with pharmacies to ensure continuous supply.
13. Storage and Disposal of Medicines
Facilities must have strict rules for safely storing, handling, and disposing of all medications. This includes expired or unwanted drugs. Disposal should follow environmental best practices to prevent harm and misuse.
14. Self-Administration of Medicines
Residents may choose to self-administer medications. RACFs must have plans to assess and support residents safely. They should regularly check the resident’s ability and consent.
15. Administration of Medicines by Nurses
RACFs must ensure all nursing staff administering medications are properly trained and authorised. The MAC should review and endorse policies to maintain safe, compliant administration practices.
Why These Guiding Principles Matter
These 15 guiding principles provide a national framework for safe, effective, and person-centred medication management in aged care. They support:
- Reduced medication errors and adverse events
- Enhanced resident engagement and wellbeing
- Improved regulatory compliance and clinical governance
- Greater confidence among healthcare teams and carers
Final Thoughts on Medication Competency
Managing medication in aged care is not just about giving out pills. It is also about respecting residents’ dignity, choices, and safety at every step. By following these 15 guiding principles, RACFs can provide high-quality care. This care will meet Australia’s best practice standards.
Ready to learn more about medication management?
Auscare offers nationally recognised training for aged care workers and nurses. Learn more about our Medication Competency training.