What dictates the handling of medications within an agency?

The handling of medications within an agency is primarily dictated by agency-specific guidelines. These guidelines are tailored to the unique needs, policies, and procedures of the individual agency, ensuring that medication administration aligns with their overall operational standards and practices.

Agency-specific guidelines take into account the regulations set forth by state and federal laws, as well as best practices in the field. These guidelines often detail how medications are stored, prepared, administered, and documented within the context of that particular agency, making them essential for maintaining safety and compliance.

While common industry practices and national medication safety regulations play important roles in shaping the broader context of medication handling, it is the specific rules and protocols established by an agency that ultimately govern the day-to-day processes. Instructions from patients are also critical as they pertain to individual care, but they do not dictate the overall handling procedures across the agency.