A self-medication program for rehabilitation patients

The purpose of this project was to develop and establish a self-medication program on the rehabilitation ward at Mount Sinai Hospital. Upon discharge most of the patients on this ward are responsible for the self-administration of medications, some of which they will be taking chronically. The objective of this program is to teach patients about their medications while still under medical supervision. Patients are counselled throughout the program by nurses and a pharmacist. Family members are also counselled on request. The program is completed by a final discussion with the patient prior to discharge. As a result of the program a manual was produced for use by pharmacy and nursing personnel to help define their respective roles in the program. Results of a patient survey indicated that a definite benefit was perceived by all patients who were helped to develop their ability to self-medicate. Errors made while in the hospital were discovered and corrected prior to discharge. Pharmacy time required to set up the program was, initially, extensive. Once the program was established, however, nursing medication administration time was greatly decreased and freed for other activities on the floor.