SAFE Medication Management for Patients With Physical Impairments of Stroke, Part Two.

Purpose: Part one of this series addressed impairments of stroke affecting motor skills. This second article focuses on the sensory impairments of stroke as they affect medication management: vision, hearing, memory and thinking, communication, and emotional disturbances.

Design: Each impairment is discussed, and possible interventions are proposed. Every patient is an individual and requires variable care plans.

Method: Interventions and strategies, such as tools for assessment, practice tips, and assistive devices, aid patients, families, and their caregivers in practicing safe medication management.

Findings: Development of a comprehensive care plan will assist the patient to return as close to previous capabilities as possible. Patient outcomes and successes are variable.

Conclusions And Clinical Relevance: The rehabilitation nurse uses observation, skills, and experience to assess stroke patients' needs and develop strategies to assist the patient in managing their medications. Involving patient, family, and caregivers in the teaching of SAFE (Systematic, Accurate, Functional, Effective) medication management increases safety, decreases the number of adverse drug events, and prevents hospitalizations.