Legislation Framework in Care Settings for Medication

1. Medicines Act 1968

The Medicines Act 1968 establishes a legal framework for manufacturing, licensing, prescribing, and administering medication. It classifies medication into:

• Prescription-only medication: Authorized by a doctor, vet, dentist, or nurse prescriber.
• Pharmacy-only medication: Purchased from a pharmacy in the presence of a pharmacist.
• General sales medication: Available for purchase without a pharmacist's presence.
• Unlicensed medication: Prescribed when benefits outweigh risks, with no liability on the manufacturer.

2. Misuse of Drugs Act 1971

The Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 aims to regulate and reduce unlawful use of controlled drugs, such as cocaine and heroin. Only medical practitioners or dentists can prescribe controlled drugs, and strict regulations govern their administration.

3. Human Medicines Regulations 2012

The Human Medicines Regulations 2012 consolidate medication law, replacing numerous pieces of secondary legislation. It includes regulations for prescription-only medicines and non-medical prescribers.

4. Prescription by Nurses Act 1992

The Prescription by Nurses Act 1992 allows nurses, with additional training, to prescribe a limited range of drugs listed in a nurse's formulary.

5. Care Standards Act 2000

The Care Standards Act 2000 sets minimum care standards, including medication management in care homes and domiciliary care. Staff administering medication must receive appropriate training and follow the home's policy.

Administration Guidelines:

• Designated staff administer medication with basic knowledge and training.
• Observations ensure proper administration during training.
• A second person typically witnesses medication administration.