Measuring medication

Measuring Medication

Measuring medication is an important aspect of medication administration to ensure that the correct dose is given. Here are some methods and tips for measuring medication:

1. Measurement of liquid medications: Liquid medications are usually measured in teaspoons, tablespoons, or milliliters. Be sure to know the exact dose and amount of liquid you are to use for each dose. For over-the-counter products, use a child’s weight to determine the dose, rather than one based on age, especially for young children. Never measure liquid medications with household silverware or tableware spoons used to eat or serve food. They are not uniformly sized and this will cause either too much or too little medication to be given. Household measuring or baking spoons also should not be used as the liquid may spill or it may be difficult for you to get the whole dose. Dropper and oral syringe are the best devices for measuring liquids, especially for very young children who cannot drink from a cup
2. Pill count: Pill count is a simple method that calculates the number of doses that have been taken by counting the number of pills remaining in the medication container.
3. Electronic medication event monitoring: This method uses electronic devices to record the date and time of each medication dose taken. This method provides detailed information about patterns and levels of adherence or factors that could influence it.
4. Compliance-Questionnaire-Rheumatology (CQR): This is a 19-item questionnaire that has been favorably compared with electronic medication event monitoring.
5. Measuring the Quality of Medication Administration: This method involves observing the medication administration process to ensure that the medication is given correctly. This method can identify errors in medication administration, such as giving the wrong dose or giving the medication at the wrong time.

When measuring medication, it is important to know the name of the medicine, correct dosage (amount of medicine, often written as both the strength and volume), time(s) of day to give medicine, number of days to continue the medicine, special instructions (example: give with food, give on an empty stomach, refrigerate), side effects to watch for, and when to call the doctor if you have concerns.