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- This topic has 4 replies, 4 voices, and was last updated 3 years, 9 months ago by
Tracey Gaslin.
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April 21, 2021 at 12:25 pm #42345
Anonymous
InactiveHello there!
We run a camp where most of our campers go out on 2-4 day “Wilderness” trips either canoeing or hiking. In the past we have sent camper medications, in their original bottles, with directions. The staff would make sure the campers took their medications (all campers are teenagers). They would be locked up with the staff at all time.
We are now looking at switching our medication system to a “bubble pack” or card format prepared by the camper’s pharmacist. My question is, does anyone have experience they can share or suggestions on how to send these medications on trip? (I’m wondering how practical it is, ways to secure the medication, amount of room the “blister pack” system might take up…)
Thoughts? Thank you in advance for your suggestions!
Cheers,
KathleenApril 22, 2021 at 1:03 pm #42363Susan Schwartzman
ParticipantWe use CampMeds and the packets are much easier to organize and send out than the original bottles, however, check your state regulations on who can administer meds.
April 26, 2021 at 10:00 am #42374Beth Schultz
ParticipantThose bubble pack cards can be large and take up room and I would want to make sure they are in something water tight just in case them container got wet on a trip. I’ve found in the past that not all pharmacies are willing to package them.
May 3, 2021 at 11:02 am #42407Anonymous
InactiveHi!
Thank you both for your responses. I have checked state/provincial guidelines (are camps are both in CDN and USA) and we do have all medications sent in waterproof packaging. I was just wondering what others do to package medication on trip. Thanks again!May 6, 2021 at 2:34 pm #42436Tracey Gaslin
MemberKathleen:
This is a great question. I think camps do a variety of things depending on their programs and structure. I would say there are key considerations for this activity to consider. How you do the key components, may look very different.
1. Make sure all medications are sent with a label with the 5 rights (drug, dose, route, time, camper name).
2. Make sure you train the staff giving these medications. WE encourage a written document for orienting them to the task of giving the medications. Have everyone sign the form – the trainer (you) and the learner (staff giving meds on trip). Help them to remember, they cannot share this task with a fellow staff member who offers to assist since the fellow staff member is not trained.
3. Consider what mechanism(s) will best protect the medications from water, light (if necessary), spilling, confusion.
4. Have a mechanism where the staff can contact the RN for questions or issues related to medications. This is especially helpful if they are wanting to give an OTC but do not have decision-making authority to decide what to give.Much to consider, but hopefully this helps. Our delegation practice guideline outlines much of this information as well. https://www.allianceforcamphealth.org/education-and-resources/resources/
Best to you
Tracey GAslin -
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