Implementing patient self-medication in an orthopaedic rehabilitation unit

Abstract

This article describes why and how a patient self-medication programme was introduced into a community hospital fast stream orthopaedic rehabilitation unit, where the average length of stay is 8 days. Continual evaluation has shown that both staff and patients now prefer self-administration of medicines. The programme has operated successfully for nearly 3 years despite the fact that the hospital has no on-site medical or pharmaceutical cover. The rehabilitation team have highlighted the reasons for its success as: o 1. The programme idea was initiated by the team. 2. Lengthy time taken in planning enabled all staff to participate in decision making, become familiar with the programme, and feel confident about changing practice. 3. Close interdisciplinary communication and collaboration.