TEACHING TIP: Storage of Medications

Review the policies and procedures for storage of non-refrigerated and refrigerated medications and show where each type is maintained or kept in the adult care home

Storage of Medications

• Medication storage areas, i.e., medication cart and medication room, need to be orderly so medication may be found easily

• Store medications in a locked area, unless medications are under the direct supervision of staff; direct supervision means the cart is in sight and the staff person can get to the cart quickly, if necessary

• Lock medication room/cart/cabinet when not in use. Unless the medication storage area is under the direct supervision of staff lock the medication area including carts

• Store external and internal medications in separate designated areas

• Store refrigerated medications in the medication refrigerator or locked container if stored in refrigerator accessible to other staff

• Store medications requiring refrigeration at 36 degrees F to 46 degrees F (2 degrees C to 8 degrees C)