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Updated: Apr 6, 2026

A Novel Approach for the Administration of Medications and Fluids in Emergency Scenarios and Settings
Published on: November 9, 2016
Hospice nurses' views on single nurse administration of controlled drugs
Vanessa Taylor1, Laura Middleton-Green2, Sally Carding3
1Senior Lecturer, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, University of Manchester, UK.
Background:
The involvement of two nurses to dispense and administer controlled drugs is routine practice in most clinical areas despite there being no legal or evidence-based rationale. Indeed, evidence suggests this practice enhances neither safety nor care. Registered nurses at two hospices agreed to change practice to single nurse dispensing and administration of controlled drugs (SNAD). Participants' views on SNAD were evaluated before and after implementation. The aim of this study was to explore the views and experiences of nurses who had implemented SNAD and to identify the views and concerns of those who had not yet experienced SNAD.
Method:
Data was obtained through semi-structured interviews.
Results:
Qualitative thematic analysis of interview transcripts identified three key themes: practice to enhance patient benefit and care; practice to enhance nursing care and satisfaction; and practice to enhance organisational safety.
Conclusion:
The findings have implications for the understanding of influences on medicines safety in clinical practice and for hospice policy makers.
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