What is the nurse's role in medication management within a skilled care unit?

The nurse's role in medication management within a skilled care unit primarily focuses on administering medications and ensuring safety. This involves not only giving the prescribed medications but also closely monitoring patients for any adverse reactions, therapeutic outcomes, and interactions with other medications. Nurses are responsible for following proper protocols related to medication administration, including double-checking dosages and routes, and utilizing the "Five Rights" of medication administration (right patient, right drug, right dose, right route, right time).

In addition to administering medications, nurses are also involved in educating patients about their medications, which includes discussing the purpose of the medications, potential side effects, and the importance of adherence to the prescribed regimen. While nurses may oversee the implementation of doctor's prescriptions, their primary responsibility is not just limited to oversight but involves active participation in the medication management process to enhance patient safety and care outcomes. This comprehensive approach is essential in a skilled care unit, where residents may have complex medication regimens due to multiple health issues.

Developing new medications is outside the scope of nursing responsibilities, as it typically falls to pharmaceutical researchers and developers. Therefore, the focus on administering medications and ensuring safety highlights the critical role that nurses play in maintaining the health and wellbeing of patients in a skilled care environment.