Rehab plays an important role in the success of resident self-administration of medication. Occupational Therapy and Speech-Language Pathology can assist with increasing safety and independence with medication adherence. Once nursing determines a resident may be appropriate for self-administration of medication, a rehab referral can be made. A member of the therapy team will screen the resident and initiate appropriate evaluations as warranted. Self-administration of medication may be part of a therapy plan of care that is also addressing other deficits and goals. Depending on each residents’ specific needs, skilled therapy intervention may focus on cognition and memory, vision, fine motor skills, and swallowing function. To promote success, frequent communication and collaboration between Rehab, Nursing, and Pharmacy will be necessary throughout the episode of care.
