The term ‘Homely Remedies’ applies to any medication that has not been prescribed by the GP but is taken by the Resident to relieve symptoms of illness. Normally these medications are readily available to purchase and are either P or GSL licensed.
Examples of Homely Remedies include:
Simple Linctus
Paracetamol
Mild constipation relief
Creams
Mild painkillers and anti-inflammatories
Hayfever relief
Cough and cold syrups, lozenges etc
Supplements
In order to be administered by staff within the Home the GP must have agreed that the Resident can take the medication as and when it is required to relieve mild symptoms.
To add a Homely Remedy to the Atlas device follow this process –
1. Enter the Residents medication list on Atlas eMAR
2. Select ‘add drug’ at the top of the screen
3. Enter the medication details as normal (dose if specified by the GP, or the standard directions)
4. From the drop down box select ‘Homely Remedy’ – this medication will not prompt to be administered. If you wish the medication to prompt, then select Atlas device.
5. Save the changes and have a colleague witness this.
Homely remedies can be accounted for on Atlas device and are display under the Homely remedies section on the patients medication list.
If you are unsure whether a Resident should be taking a Homely Remedy, please contact the GP.