Case 1: Crushing Pills for Easier Swallowing
Scenario: A Direct Care Worker assists an elderly client who has difficulty swallowing pills. The client complains about a large tablet, so the Direct
Care Worker crushes the pill and mixes it into applesauce without consulting a nurse or doctor.
Mistake: Some medications are time-released or coated to protect the stomach. Crushing them can lead to overdose or reduced effectiveness.
Correct Action: The Direct Care Worker should not alter medication in any way. Instead, they should notify the appropriate healthcare provider or caregiver for guidance.
Case 2: Giving Medication from a Pill Bottle
Scenario: A client forgets to take their morning pills. The Direct Care Worker, wanting to help, takes the medication bottle, pours the pills into their hand, and gives them to the client.
Mistake: Handling medication is considered administering rather than reminding, which is outside the Direct Care Worker’s role.
Correct Action: The Direct Care Worker should remind the client to take their medication and ensure they take it at the correct time but should never
touch or hand over the pills.
Case 3: Adjusting a Client’s Insulin Dose
Scenario: A client with diabetes mentions their blood sugar feels high. The Direct Care Worker sees the client's insulin pen and, wanting to be helpful,
administers a dose.
Mistake: Direct Care Workers cannot administer injections or adjust medication doses. Incorrect insulin dosage can lead to severe health risks, including hypoglycemia or diabetic coma.
Correct Action: The Direct Care Worker should encourage the client to follow their doctor’s prescribed plan and, if necessary, contact a nurse or
emergency services for assistance.
Case 4: Giving Over-the-Counter Medication for Pain Relief
Scenario: A client complains of a headache. The Direct Care Worker, wanting to be helpful, gives them a Tylenol from their own bag or offers to open the client’s medication bottle.
Mistake: Even over-the-counter drugs are considered medication administration. The Direct Care Worker is not allowed to give, open, or suggest
medications beyond reminding the client of their scheduled prescriptions.
Correct Action: The Direct Care Worker should advise the client to take their prescribed medications as directed and inform a supervisor if the client is
in pain or discomfort.
Case 5: Applying Prescription Cream or Eye Drops
Scenario: A client has a prescription skin cream for a rash. They ask the Direct Care Worker to apply it to a hard-to-reach area.
Mistake: Applying any prescription medication, including creams, eye drops, or inhalers, is considered administering medication and is not allowed for
Direct Care Workers.
Correct Action: The Direct Care Worker should remind the client to apply the cream themselves or notify a nurse, family member, or authorized caregiver
to assist.
Print 