TeamTalk
TeamTalk Session 401
Medication Safety - Resident appears unwell
This video explores a safeguarding concern involving a potential medication error, where a resident appears unusually drowsy or over-sedated following administration. It highlights the importance of early recognition and prompt action to ensure the resident’s safety and wellbeing.
Resources
Session Guide
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TeamTalk Session Guide
Session No. 401
Medication Safety – Resident Appears Over-Sedated
Session aim | To help staff recognise a clear change in a resident’s usual alertness, understand what could happen if concerns are not acted on, and discuss what safe practice looks like. |
Suggested session length | 12 to 15 minutes |
Session structure | Play Part 1 • Pause for discussion • Play Part 2 • Pause for discussion • Play Part 3 • Final discussion and close |
Set the scene
This scenario shows a resident who appears more drowsy and less responsive than usual. Staff first notice the change, then see what could happen if it is not acted on, and finally what good practice looks like.
Pause 1 discussion
What could be happening here?
Suggested answers
- A clear change from normal
- Possible illness or medication effect
- The resident may be unwell
What are the risks if nothing is done?
Suggested answers
- Deterioration
- Choking
- Falls
- Delay in getting help
Pause 2 discussion
What risks does this situation present?
Suggested answers
- Choking
- Falls
- Becoming more unwell
- Missing early warning signs
Has anything similar happened in your setting?
Suggested answers
- Staff may recognise early warning signs
- Small changes can be important
Final discussion
What should staff do when they notice a change?
Suggested answers
- Take the change seriously
- Report promptly
- Monitor the resident
- Record observations clearly
- Follow local procedures
Why is it important to act early?
Suggested answers
- Prevents harm
- Allows quicker support
- Small changes can indicate serious issues
Key learning points
- A clear change from normal should always be taken seriously
- Staff often recognise when something is not right
- Ignoring concerns can lead to harm
- Early reporting, monitoring, and recording are essential
- Staff do not need to know the cause before raising a concern
Reflective question
What signs of change in a resident would make you stop and report a concern?
Further support
- NICE: Managing medicines in care homes
- CQC: Medicines management
- NHS: Medicines and falls
Session Log
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