Preparing For A Medical Appointment (Page 4 of 4) in pdf

Preparing For A Medical Appointment Page 4

PREPARING FOR A MEDICAL APPOINTMENT

Bring back all forms, any prescriptions, doctor’s orders, and the appointment card to the

12.

appropriate person.

□ A. Make sure everything is in writing for clear communication to all other staff in the residence. Is there a communication

book?

□ B. Update the guardian – what do you do if you have difficulty reaching the guardian?

13. After the Appointment – Who Needs to Know About This Appointment?

How are you going to communicate?

□ Day program staff – should be given an update even if a new medication is not given during day programming – new

medications will most likely take effect during the day

□ DSPs should be given a copy of the health note, treatment sheet, and instructions on what to document, etc.

□ Residential staff: residential manager is responsible for developing a clear method of communicating health information and

medication changes to all staff.

□ Service Coordinator – call and give update or leave message with update.

□ Nurse – call to update

14. Whenever a change in an individual’s medication occurs:

□ Fill prescriptions right away – doctor’s orders should be started within 24 hours unless otherwise instructed. Antibiotics need

to be started right away!!

□ Before leaving the pharmacy, look at each bottle to make sure label is correct and matches your orders. What if the

pharmacy is unable to fill the prescriptions?

□ Before calling the nurse, review the medication information – have the written order, medication bottle and med log in front of

you when you call. Ask the nurse if you have any questions about the order or about setting up the med log.

□ Are there special instructions, schedules, or storage requirements?

□ Are there possible interactions with other medications?

□ Check allergy information!

Page 4 of 4

New Hampshire Bureau of Developmental Services

Preparing For A Medical Appointment Page 4