I can speak to our practice here in Colorado as we often have weekend doses packaged (by our pharmacy) for our patients to SA over weekends or holidays until we can get them to vdot (after 2 months of initial treatment). We have asked the pharmacy to package weekend packets for the patient or parent to give for weekends, so they (or used to) package two sets for us, weekend doses and then the nurse observed doses. That said, we recently changed pharmacies and they are utilizing daily packaged meds with the label on each bag so the pharmacy essentially sends us 30 individually labeled packages. When a small package is labeled with the patient name, information, medication, dosing instructions, etc., the nurse can give those packets to the patient. It is only when they are not labeled which is why we used to have to have them prepare two bag sets in the past, prior to this new machine. This is a little more costly, but it meets the regulations in regards to dispensing and it is getting our patients the weekend/holiday doses. 

In regards to leaving medication in the home, I was taught that we shouldn't leave bottles in the homes over the weekend so as not to compromise the medication. In the cases we did not have access to individual packaged and labelled medication, we would just do the 5 days per week with DOT knowing that holidays throw a snag in that plan. I am interested if other states have been more creative. 

I hope our process as I explained it makes sense.

Have a wonderful Monday, everyone!

Ann 

Ann Scarpita BSN, MPH
TB Nurse Consultant
Tuberculosis Program
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment 
4300 Cherry Creek Drive South, Denver, CO 80246
303.692.2656|  303.759.5538

"Wisdom is knowing the right path. Integrity is taking it." ~M.H. McKee 

Confidentiality Notice: This electronic transmission and any attached documents or other writings are intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return e-mail and destroy the communication. Any disclosure, copying, distribution or the taking of any action concerning the contents of this communication or any attachments by anyone other than the named recipient is strictly prohibited.


On Fri, Sep 7, 2018 at 6:35 PM, TB nurse communication <nobody@simplelists.com> wrote:
(Previous discussion continued)
RE: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - Keehr, Terri (07 Sep 2018 09:29 EDT)
(Previous discussion continued)
RE: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - Patricia Woods (07 Sep 2018 10:17 EDT)

RE: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by Keehr, Terri (07 Sep 2018 09:29 EDT)
Reply to list

    Thanks Diana.

    If you can’t do VDOT, and can’t get the pharmacy to prepackage weekend meds, do you just leave the client without medication for the weekend (and holidays?)  I have been doing VDOT also which is a godsend, and fortunately all the cases were appropriate for VDOT.   Back in the old days (2012-2013) during our outbreak we had to do DOT 7 days a week on 27 cases.  Still gives me nightmares!

     

    Terri Keehr, BSN, RN

    TB Program Manager

    Grand Forks Public Health

    151 South 4th Street  Suite N301

    Grand Forks, ND  58201

    701-787-8120

     

     

    From: TB nurse communication [mailto:nobody@simplelists.com]
    Sent: Thursday, September 06, 2018 7:38 PM
    To: tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com
    Subject: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com

     

    (Previous discussion continued)

    Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - Fortune, Diana, DOH (05 Sep 2018 22:18 EDT)

    RE: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - Katie Kelsch (06 Sep 2018 18:44 EDT)

    RE: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - BEHM Heidi (06 Sep 2018 10:48 EDT)

    Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by Fortune, Diana, DOH (05 Sep 2018 22:18 EDT)
    Reply to list

    Hi Teri,

    On very rare occasions - ie we currently have a 5 month old with TB meningitis- one of the public health nurses actually goes and does DOT home visits on the weekends.  Most time we don’t do weekend dosing at all - too complicated and we don’t have physicians to sign off on SAT packets.  Infrequently we do SAT packets for weekend dosing - with coinfected TB/HIV patients.  Occasionally I can get our state pharmacists to do patient specific weekend SAT packets - but that is a struggle.  So no one answer - hope that helps a little ....

    Wish it was easier!  Oh and we have started doing some EMOCHA - so in that instance we CAN do video weekend DOT ....how could I have forgotten that.

    Diana 


    On Sep 5, 2018, at 6:40 PM, TB nurse communication <nobody@simplelists.com> wrote:

    (Previous discussion continued) RE: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - Keehr, Terri (05 Sep 2018 10:43 EDT) RE: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - Belinda Davis (05 Sep 2018 11:57 EDT) RE: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by Keehr, Terri (05 Sep 2018 10:43 EDT)
    Reply to list

    Diana,

    How do you manage weekends?  Do you do Sat and Sun home visits for DOT, or leave the medication bottles with the client?

     

    Terri Keehr, BSN, RN

    TB Program Manager

    Grand Forks Public Health

    151 South 4th Street  Suite N301

    Grand Forks, ND  58201

    701-787-8120

     

     

    From: TB nurse communication [mailto:nobody@simplelists.com]
    Sent: Tuesday, September 04, 2018 7:34 PM
    To: tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com
    Subject: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com

     

    (Previous discussion continued)

    Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - Fortune, Diana, DOH (03 Sep 2018 22:14 EDT)

    Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by Fortune, Diana, DOH (03 Sep 2018 22:14 EDT)
    Reply to list

    ​Hi all,

    In New Mexico it is exactly as Ann described. We cannot per state pharmacy rules repackage medications into SAT packets for weekend dosing without a pharmacist or MD  physically signing the packets/bottles.  That becomes dispensing medications and is not allowed.  For DOT workers or others who may be supervising DOT - the patient must open the bottle of medications and give themselves or (child) the medications while the DOT worker observes the dosage.  Of course RNs can administer medications just as we would in a hospital environment.

    Not being able to send SAT packages for weekend dosing is inconvenient and difficult to manage.  Wish there was an easier way to do so!

    Diana Fortune

    From: TB nurse communication <nobody@simplelists.com>
    Sent: Monday, September 3, 2018 6:22 PM
    To: tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com
    Subject: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com

     

    (Previous discussion continued) Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - Scarpita - CDPHE, Ann (03 Sep 2018 11:15 EDT) Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by Scarpita - CDPHE, Ann (03 Sep 2018 11:15 EDT)
    Reply to list

    Good Morning, All and Happy Labor Day! 

    Your question is a good one. Something I believe we have all questioned ourselves at some point. I have looked into this in the two states I have worked and as I understand the laws and our limitations in scopes of practice surrounding dispensing of medications, RNs are not legally able to do legally do this. Only a pharmacist can dispense, including repackage and relabel medications. That said, you can immediately take from a bottle to a package if that is being given to the patient immediately by the RN who is doing the preparing (as you would in a SNF). You cannot put into smaller packages and give to the patient to take at a later date (weekend doses). You cannot prepare packages given by other nurses.  

    California may have a different law related to dispensing. I think Ann Raftery would know that answer (for California) but am not sure she is in the office this week. I am eager to hear if it does and any policies surrounding the application of RNs doing this in the field. It may be something we could propose expanding in other states. 

    So, I am sorry, I don't have what you are seeking and I commented but I believe you are bringing up a VERY good question and again, I am eager to hear more weigh in. For anyone sharing policies, procedures or protocols around this, I would like to ask that they touch on how they arrived at those and if their state has laws which allow nurses to dispense (i.e. different dispensing definition). 

    Hope you all have a superb Labor Day!

    Respectfully,

    ~Ann

     

    Ann Scarpita BSN, MPH

    TB Nurse Consultant

    Tuberculosis Program

    Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment

    4300 Cherry Creek Drive South, Denver, CO 80246

    303.692.2656|  F 303.759.5538

    "Wisdom is knowing the right path. Integrity is taking it." ~M.H. McKee

    Confidentiality Notice: This electronic transmission and any attached documents or other writings are intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return e-mail and destroy the communication. Any disclosure, copying, distribution or the taking of any action concerning the contents of this communication or any attachments by anyone other than the named recipient is strictly prohibited.

     

    On Fri, Aug 31, 2018 at 6:47 PM, TB nurse communication <nobody@simplelists.com> wrote:

    Repacking Medications - Katie Kelsch (31 Aug 2018 11:16 EDT) Repacking Medications by Katie Kelsch (31 Aug 2018 11:16 EDT)
    Reply to list

    Hi all,

     

    This is for small/medium size counties, without a chest clinic and without a pharmacy.  We are looking for Policies and Procedures around RNs repacking medications in to the DOT Packets.  We receive the medications from our patients (filled at commercial pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens).  We then create individual DOT packets in small plastic envelopes.  Some concerns/questions that have come up are focused around:

     

    ·         Labeling

    ·         Child Poisoning Prevention Act

    ·         The actual physical repackaging of medication

     

    Thank you all!  Have a safe Labor Day weekend.

     

    Katie

     

    Katie Kelsch, BSN, RN, PHN

    Senior Public Health Nurse

    Yolo County Health and Human Services Agency

    137 N. Cottonwood Street

    Woodland, CA 95695

    Office: 530-666-8339 (direct)

    Fax: 530-669-1549 (confidential)

     

    Please consider the environment before printing this email.

     

    YOLO COUNTY EMAIL DISCLAIMER:

    This email and any attachments thereto may contain private, confidential, and privileged material for the sole use of the intended recipient.  Any review, copying, or distribution of this email (or any attachments thereto) by other than the County of Yolo or the intended recipient is strictly prohibited.  if you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender immediately and permanently delete the original and any copies of this email and any attachments. 

     

    To reply to a posting, simply reply. To start a new thread, address it to
    tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com and put in a concise subject line.
    You are on the daily digest setting for the listserve.The archives for
    this list are at http://ntca.simplelists.com/tbnurses.
    If you have problems with the listserve, please contact Lorna
    Will at lwill@tbcontrollers.org

    To reply to a posting, simply reply. To start a new thread, address it to
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    Will at lwill@tbcontrollers.org

    To reply to a posting, simply reply. To start a new thread, address it to
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    Will at lwill@tbcontrollers.org

    RE: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by Belinda Davis (05 Sep 2018 11:57 EDT)
    Reply to list

    Hello Everyone!

     

    We had the same issue.  We have the meds bubble packed and can request that the pharmacy do weekend packaging for the month.  We keep the M-F packet at the clinic and the patient has the weekend packet at home.  The pharmacy does all the packaging. 

     

     

    Belinda Davis, RN, BSN

    TB Nurse Case Manager

    Pima County Health Department

    2980 E. Ajo Way

    Tucson, AZ  85713

    520-724-8461 office

    520-981-0631 cell

    520-294-1092 fax

     

     

     

    From: TB nurse communication <nobody@simplelists.com>
    Sent: Tuesday, September 4, 2018 5:34 PM
    To: tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com
    Subject: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com

     

    ******* This message and sender come from outside Pima County. If you did not expect this message, proceed with caution. Verify the sender's identity before performing any action, such as clicking on a link or opening an attachment. *******    

    (Previous discussion continued)

    Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - Fortune, Diana, DOH (03 Sep 2018 22:14 EDT)

    Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by Fortune, Diana, DOH (03 Sep 2018 22:14 EDT)
    Reply to list

    ​Hi all,

    In New Mexico it is exactly as Ann described. We cannot per state pharmacy rules repackage medications into SAT packets for weekend dosing without a pharmacist or MD  physically signing the packets/bottles.  That becomes dispensing medications and is not allowed.  For DOT workers or others who may be supervising DOT - the patient must open the bottle of medications and give themselves or (child) the medications while the DOT worker observes the dosage.  Of course RNs can administer medications just as we would in a hospital environment.

    Not being able to send SAT packages for weekend dosing is inconvenient and difficult to manage.  Wish there was an easier way to do so!

    Diana Fortune

    From: TB nurse communication <nobody@simplelists.com>
    Sent: Monday, September 3, 2018 6:22 PM
    To: tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com
    Subject: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com

     

    (Previous discussion continued) Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - Scarpita - CDPHE, Ann (03 Sep 2018 11:15 EDT) Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by Scarpita - CDPHE, Ann (03 Sep 2018 11:15 EDT)
    Reply to list

    Good Morning, All and Happy Labor Day! 

    Your question is a good one. Something I believe we have all questioned ourselves at some point. I have looked into this in the two states I have worked and as I understand the laws and our limitations in scopes of practice surrounding dispensing of medications, RNs are not legally able to do legally do this. Only a pharmacist can dispense, including repackage and relabel medications. That said, you can immediately take from a bottle to a package if that is being given to the patient immediately by the RN who is doing the preparing (as you would in a SNF). You cannot put into smaller packages and give to the patient to take at a later date (weekend doses). You cannot prepare packages given by other nurses.  

    California may have a different law related to dispensing. I think Ann Raftery would know that answer (for California) but am not sure she is in the office this week. I am eager to hear if it does and any policies surrounding the application of RNs doing this in the field. It may be something we could propose expanding in other states. 

    So, I am sorry, I don't have what you are seeking and I commented but I believe you are bringing up a VERY good question and again, I am eager to hear more weigh in. For anyone sharing policies, procedures or protocols around this, I would like to ask that they touch on how they arrived at those and if their state has laws which allow nurses to dispense (i.e. different dispensing definition). 

    Hope you all have a superb Labor Day!

    Respectfully,

    ~Ann

     

    Ann Scarpita BSN, MPH

    TB Nurse Consultant

    Tuberculosis Program

    Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment

    4300 Cherry Creek Drive South, Denver, CO 80246

    303.692.2656|  F 303.759.5538

    "Wisdom is knowing the right path. Integrity is taking it." ~M.H. McKee

    Confidentiality Notice: This electronic transmission and any attached documents or other writings are intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return e-mail and destroy the communication. Any disclosure, copying, distribution or the taking of any action concerning the contents of this communication or any attachments by anyone other than the named recipient is strictly prohibited.

     

    On Fri, Aug 31, 2018 at 6:47 PM, TB nurse communication <nobody@simplelists.com> wrote:

    Repacking Medications - Katie Kelsch (31 Aug 2018 11:16 EDT) Repacking Medications by Katie Kelsch (31 Aug 2018 11:16 EDT)
    Reply to list

    Hi all,

     

    This is for small/medium size counties, without a chest clinic and without a pharmacy.  We are looking for Policies and Procedures around RNs repacking medications in to the DOT Packets.  We receive the medications from our patients (filled at commercial pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens).  We then create individual DOT packets in small plastic envelopes.  Some concerns/questions that have come up are focused around:

     

    ·         Labeling

    ·         Child Poisoning Prevention Act

    ·         The actual physical repackaging of medication

     

    Thank you all!  Have a safe Labor Day weekend.

     

    Katie

     

    Katie Kelsch, BSN, RN, PHN

    Senior Public Health Nurse

    Yolo County Health and Human Services Agency

    137 N. Cottonwood Street

    Woodland, CA 95695

    Office: 530-666-8339 (direct)

    Fax: 530-669-1549 (confidential)

     

    Please consider the environment before printing this email.

     

    YOLO COUNTY EMAIL DISCLAIMER:

    This email and any attachments thereto may contain private, confidential, and privileged material for the sole use of the intended recipient.  Any review, copying, or distribution of this email (or any attachments thereto) by other than the County of Yolo or the intended recipient is strictly prohibited.  if you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender immediately and permanently delete the original and any copies of this email and any attachments. 

     

    To reply to a posting, simply reply. To start a new thread, address it to
    tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com and put in a concise subject line.
    You are on the daily digest setting for the listserve.The archives for
    this list are at http://ntca.simplelists.com/tbnurses.
    If you have problems with the listserve, please contact Lorna
    Will at lwill@tbcontrollers.org

    To reply to a posting, simply reply. To start a new thread, address it to
    tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com and put in a concise subject line.
    You are on the daily digest setting for the listserve.The archives for
    this list are at http://ntca.simplelists.com/tbnurses.
    If you have problems with the listserve, please contact Lorna
    Will at lwill@tbcontrollers.org

    To reply to a posting, simply reply. To start a new thread, address it to
    tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com and put in a concise subject line.
    You are on the daily digest setting for the listserve.The archives for
    this list are at http://ntca.simplelists.com/tbnurses.
    If you have problems with the listserve, please contact Lorna
    Will at lwill@tbcontrollers.org

    To reply to a posting, simply reply. To start a new thread, address it to
    tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com and put in a concise subject line.
    You are on the daily digest setting for the listserve.The archives for
    this list are at http://ntca.simplelists.com/tbnurses.
    If you have problems with the listserve, please contact Lorna
    Will at lwill@tbcontrollers.org

    RE: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by Katie Kelsch (06 Sep 2018 18:44 EDT)
    Reply to list

    Thank you Diana and Ann.  Your answers are extremely helpful.  A quick follow up question:

     

    Do you have unlicensed personnel observe the patient taking the meds out of the bottles, or do you only used licensed staff?

     

    Thank you!

     

    Katie Kelsch, BSN, RN, PHN

    Senior Public Health Nurse

    Yolo County Health and Human Services Agency

    137 N. Cottonwood Street

    Woodland, CA 95695

    Office:  530-666-8339 (direct)

    Fax: 530-669-1549 (confidential)

     

    Please consider the environment before printing this email.

     

    YOLO COUNTY EMAIL DISCLAIMER:

    This email and any attachments thereto may contain private, confidential, and privileged material for the sole use of the intended recipient.  Any review, copying, or distribution of this email (or any attachments thereto) by other than the County of Yolo or the intended recipient is strictly prohibited.  if you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender immediately and permanently delete the original and any copies of this email and any attachments. 

     

    From: TB nurse communication [mailto:nobody@simplelists.com]
    Sent: Wednesday, September 05, 2018 5:40 PM
    To: tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com
    Subject: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com

     

    (Previous discussion continued)

    RE: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - Keehr, Terri (05 Sep 2018 10:43 EDT)

    RE: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - Belinda Davis (05 Sep 2018 11:57 EDT)

    RE: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by Keehr, Terri (05 Sep 2018 10:43 EDT)
    Reply to list

    Diana,

    How do you manage weekends?  Do you do Sat and Sun home visits for DOT, or leave the medication bottles with the client?

     

    Terri Keehr, BSN, RN

    TB Program Manager

    Grand Forks Public Health

    151 South 4th Street  Suite N301

    Grand Forks, ND  58201

    701-787-8120

     

     

    From: TB nurse communication [mailto:nobody@simplelists.com]
    Sent: Tuesday, September 04, 2018 7:34 PM
    To: tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com
    Subject: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com

     

    (Previous discussion continued)

    Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - Fortune, Diana, DOH (03 Sep 2018 22:14 EDT)

    Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by Fortune, Diana, DOH (03 Sep 2018 22:14 EDT)
    Reply to list

    ​Hi all,

    In New Mexico it is exactly as Ann described. We cannot per state pharmacy rules repackage medications into SAT packets for weekend dosing without a pharmacist or MD  physically signing the packets/bottles.  That becomes dispensing medications and is not allowed.  For DOT workers or others who may be supervising DOT - the patient must open the bottle of medications and give themselves or (child) the medications while the DOT worker observes the dosage.  Of course RNs can administer medications just as we would in a hospital environment.

    Not being able to send SAT packages for weekend dosing is inconvenient and difficult to manage.  Wish there was an easier way to do so!

    Diana Fortune

    From: TB nurse communication <nobody@simplelists.com>
    Sent: Monday, September 3, 2018 6:22 PM
    To: tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com
    Subject: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com

     

    (Previous discussion continued) Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - Scarpita - CDPHE, Ann (03 Sep 2018 11:15 EDT) Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by Scarpita - CDPHE, Ann (03 Sep 2018 11:15 EDT)
    Reply to list

    Good Morning, All and Happy Labor Day! 

    Your question is a good one. Something I believe we have all questioned ourselves at some point. I have looked into this in the two states I have worked and as I understand the laws and our limitations in scopes of practice surrounding dispensing of medications, RNs are not legally able to do legally do this. Only a pharmacist can dispense, including repackage and relabel medications. That said, you can immediately take from a bottle to a package if that is being given to the patient immediately by the RN who is doing the preparing (as you would in a SNF). You cannot put into smaller packages and give to the patient to take at a later date (weekend doses). You cannot prepare packages given by other nurses.  

    California may have a different law related to dispensing. I think Ann Raftery would know that answer (for California) but am not sure she is in the office this week. I am eager to hear if it does and any policies surrounding the application of RNs doing this in the field. It may be something we could propose expanding in other states. 

    So, I am sorry, I don't have what you are seeking and I commented but I believe you are bringing up a VERY good question and again, I am eager to hear more weigh in. For anyone sharing policies, procedures or protocols around this, I would like to ask that they touch on how they arrived at those and if their state has laws which allow nurses to dispense (i.e. different dispensing definition). 

    Hope you all have a superb Labor Day!

    Respectfully,

    ~Ann

     

    Ann Scarpita BSN, MPH

    TB Nurse Consultant

    Tuberculosis Program

    Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment

    4300 Cherry Creek Drive South, Denver, CO 80246

    303.692.2656|  F 303.759.5538

    "Wisdom is knowing the right path. Integrity is taking it." ~M.H. McKee

    Confidentiality Notice: This electronic transmission and any attached documents or other writings are intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return e-mail and destroy the communication. Any disclosure, copying, distribution or the taking of any action concerning the contents of this communication or any attachments by anyone other than the named recipient is strictly prohibited.

     

    On Fri, Aug 31, 2018 at 6:47 PM, TB nurse communication <nobody@simplelists.com> wrote:

    Repacking Medications - Katie Kelsch (31 Aug 2018 11:16 EDT) Repacking Medications by Katie Kelsch (31 Aug 2018 11:16 EDT)
    Reply to list

    Hi all,

     

    This is for small/medium size counties, without a chest clinic and without a pharmacy.  We are looking for Policies and Procedures around RNs repacking medications in to the DOT Packets.  We receive the medications from our patients (filled at commercial pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens).  We then create individual DOT packets in small plastic envelopes.  Some concerns/questions that have come up are focused around:

     

    ·         Labeling

    ·         Child Poisoning Prevention Act

    ·         The actual physical repackaging of medication

     

    Thank you all!  Have a safe Labor Day weekend.

     

    Katie

     

    Katie Kelsch, BSN, RN, PHN

    Senior Public Health Nurse

    Yolo County Health and Human Services Agency

    137 N. Cottonwood Street

    Woodland, CA 95695

    Office: 530-666-8339 (direct)

    Fax: 530-669-1549 (confidential)

     

    Please consider the environment before printing this email.

     

    YOLO COUNTY EMAIL DISCLAIMER:

    This email and any attachments thereto may contain private, confidential, and privileged material for the sole use of the intended recipient.  Any review, copying, or distribution of this email (or any attachments thereto) by other than the County of Yolo or the intended recipient is strictly prohibited.  if you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender immediately and permanently delete the original and any copies of this email and any attachments. 

     

    To reply to a posting, simply reply. To start a new thread, address it to
    tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com and put in a concise subject line.
    You are on the daily digest setting for the listserve.The archives for
    this list are at http://ntca.simplelists.com/tbnurses.
    If you have problems with the listserve, please contact Lorna
    Will at lwill@tbcontrollers.org

    To reply to a posting, simply reply. To start a new thread, address it to
    tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com and put in a concise subject line.
    You are on the daily digest setting for the listserve.The archives for
    this list are at http://ntca.simplelists.com/tbnurses.
    If you have problems with the listserve, please contact Lorna
    Will at lwill@tbcontrollers.org

    To reply to a posting, simply reply. To start a new thread, address it to
    tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com and put in a concise subject line.
    You are on the daily digest setting for the listserve.The archives for
    this list are at http://ntca.simplelists.com/tbnurses.
    If you have problems with the listserve, please contact Lorna
    Will at lwill@tbcontrollers.org

    RE: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by Belinda Davis (05 Sep 2018 11:57 EDT)
    Reply to list

    Hello Everyone!

     

    We had the same issue.  We have the meds bubble packed and can request that the pharmacy do weekend packaging for the month.  We keep the M-F packet at the clinic and the patient has the weekend packet at home.  The pharmacy does all the packaging. 

     

     

    Belinda Davis, RN, BSN

    TB Nurse Case Manager

    Pima County Health Department

    2980 E. Ajo Way

    Tucson, AZ  85713

    520-724-8461 office

    520-981-0631 cell

    520-294-1092 fax

     

     

     

    From: TB nurse communication <nobody@simplelists.com>
    Sent: Tuesday, September 4, 2018 5:34 PM
    To: tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com
    Subject: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com

     

    ******* This message and sender come from outside Pima County. If you did not expect this message, proceed with caution. Verify the sender's identity before performing any action, such as clicking on a link or opening an attachment. *******    

    (Previous discussion continued)

    Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - Fortune, Diana, DOH (03 Sep 2018 22:14 EDT)

    Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by Fortune, Diana, DOH (03 Sep 2018 22:14 EDT)
    Reply to list

    ​Hi all,

    In New Mexico it is exactly as Ann described. We cannot per state pharmacy rules repackage medications into SAT packets for weekend dosing without a pharmacist or MD  physically signing the packets/bottles.  That becomes dispensing medications and is not allowed.  For DOT workers or others who may be supervising DOT - the patient must open the bottle of medications and give themselves or (child) the medications while the DOT worker observes the dosage.  Of course RNs can administer medications just as we would in a hospital environment.

    Not being able to send SAT packages for weekend dosing is inconvenient and difficult to manage.  Wish there was an easier way to do so!

    Diana Fortune

    From: TB nurse communication <nobody@simplelists.com>
    Sent: Monday, September 3, 2018 6:22 PM
    To: tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com
    Subject: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com

     

    (Previous discussion continued) Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - Scarpita - CDPHE, Ann (03 Sep 2018 11:15 EDT) Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by Scarpita - CDPHE, Ann (03 Sep 2018 11:15 EDT)
    Reply to list

    Good Morning, All and Happy Labor Day! 

    Your question is a good one. Something I believe we have all questioned ourselves at some point. I have looked into this in the two states I have worked and as I understand the laws and our limitations in scopes of practice surrounding dispensing of medications, RNs are not legally able to do legally do this. Only a pharmacist can dispense, including repackage and relabel medications. That said, you can immediately take from a bottle to a package if that is being given to the patient immediately by the RN who is doing the preparing (as you would in a SNF). You cannot put into smaller packages and give to the patient to take at a later date (weekend doses). You cannot prepare packages given by other nurses.  

    California may have a different law related to dispensing. I think Ann Raftery would know that answer (for California) but am not sure she is in the office this week. I am eager to hear if it does and any policies surrounding the application of RNs doing this in the field. It may be something we could propose expanding in other states. 

    So, I am sorry, I don't have what you are seeking and I commented but I believe you are bringing up a VERY good question and again, I am eager to hear more weigh in. For anyone sharing policies, procedures or protocols around this, I would like to ask that they touch on how they arrived at those and if their state has laws which allow nurses to dispense (i.e. different dispensing definition). 

    Hope you all have a superb Labor Day!

    Respectfully,

    ~Ann

     

    Ann Scarpita BSN, MPH

    TB Nurse Consultant

    Tuberculosis Program

    Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment

    4300 Cherry Creek Drive South, Denver, CO 80246

    303.692.2656|  F 303.759.5538

    "Wisdom is knowing the right path. Integrity is taking it." ~M.H. McKee

    Confidentiality Notice: This electronic transmission and any attached documents or other writings are intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return e-mail and destroy the communication. Any disclosure, copying, distribution or the taking of any action concerning the contents of this communication or any attachments by anyone other than the named recipient is strictly prohibited.

     

    On Fri, Aug 31, 2018 at 6:47 PM, TB nurse communication <nobody@simplelists.com> wrote:

    Repacking Medications - Katie Kelsch (31 Aug 2018 11:16 EDT) Repacking Medications by Katie Kelsch (31 Aug 2018 11:16 EDT)
    Reply to list

    Hi all,

     

    This is for small/medium size counties, without a chest clinic and without a pharmacy.  We are looking for Policies and Procedures around RNs repacking medications in to the DOT Packets.  We receive the medications from our patients (filled at commercial pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens).  We then create individual DOT packets in small plastic envelopes.  Some concerns/questions that have come up are focused around:

     

    ·         Labeling

    ·         Child Poisoning Prevention Act

    ·         The actual physical repackaging of medication

     

    Thank you all!  Have a safe Labor Day weekend.

     

    Katie

     

    Katie Kelsch, BSN, RN, PHN

    Senior Public Health Nurse

    Yolo County Health and Human Services Agency

    137 N. Cottonwood Street

    Woodland, CA 95695

    Office: 530-666-8339 (direct)

    Fax: 530-669-1549 (confidential)

     

    Please consider the environment before printing this email.

     

    YOLO COUNTY EMAIL DISCLAIMER:

    This email and any attachments thereto may contain private, confidential, and privileged material for the sole use of the intended recipient.  Any review, copying, or distribution of this email (or any attachments thereto) by other than the County of Yolo or the intended recipient is strictly prohibited.  if you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender immediately and permanently delete the original and any copies of this email and any attachments. 

     

    To reply to a posting, simply reply. To start a new thread, address it to
    tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com and put in a concise subject line.
    You are on the daily digest setting for the listserve.The archives for
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    If you have problems with the listserve, please contact Lorna
    Will at lwill@tbcontrollers.org

    To reply to a posting, simply reply. To start a new thread, address it to
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    Will at lwill@tbcontrollers.org

    To reply to a posting, simply reply. To start a new thread, address it to
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    Will at lwill@tbcontrollers.org

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    RE: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by BEHM Heidi (06 Sep 2018 10:48 EDT)
    Reply to list

    Per the Board of Pharmacy in Oregon we can either have the patient sign a waiver stating the container doesn’t need to be childproof or place medications in a childproof container.

    We purchased childproof envelopes.  They can be reused.  Medications are left in there if no waiver.  Here’s an example: https://www.clearbags.com/bags/child-resistant

     

    From: TB nurse communication <nobody@simplelists.com>
    Sent: Wednesday, September 5, 2018 5:40 PM
    To: tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com
    Subject: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com

     

    (Previous discussion continued)

    RE: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - Keehr, Terri (05 Sep 2018 10:43 EDT)

    RE: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - Belinda Davis (05 Sep 2018 11:57 EDT)

    RE: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by Keehr, Terri (05 Sep 2018 10:43 EDT)
    Reply to list

    Diana,

    How do you manage weekends?  Do you do Sat and Sun home visits for DOT, or leave the medication bottles with the client?

     

    Terri Keehr, BSN, RN

    TB Program Manager

    Grand Forks Public Health

    151 South 4th Street  Suite N301

    Grand Forks, ND  58201

    701-787-8120

     

     

    From: TB nurse communication [mailto:nobody@simplelists.com]
    Sent: Tuesday, September 04, 2018 7:34 PM
    To: tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com
    Subject: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com

     

    (Previous discussion continued)

    Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - Fortune, Diana, DOH (03 Sep 2018 22:14 EDT)

    Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by Fortune, Diana, DOH (03 Sep 2018 22:14 EDT)
    Reply to list

    ​Hi all,

    In New Mexico it is exactly as Ann described. We cannot per state pharmacy rules repackage medications into SAT packets for weekend dosing without a pharmacist or MD  physically signing the packets/bottles.  That becomes dispensing medications and is not allowed.  For DOT workers or others who may be supervising DOT - the patient must open the bottle of medications and give themselves or (child) the medications while the DOT worker observes the dosage.  Of course RNs can administer medications just as we would in a hospital environment.

    Not being able to send SAT packages for weekend dosing is inconvenient and difficult to manage.  Wish there was an easier way to do so!

    Diana Fortune

    From: TB nurse communication <nobody@simplelists.com>
    Sent: Monday, September 3, 2018 6:22 PM
    To: tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com
    Subject: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com

     

    (Previous discussion continued) Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - Scarpita - CDPHE, Ann (03 Sep 2018 11:15 EDT) Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by Scarpita - CDPHE, Ann (03 Sep 2018 11:15 EDT)
    Reply to list

    Good Morning, All and Happy Labor Day! 

    Your question is a good one. Something I believe we have all questioned ourselves at some point. I have looked into this in the two states I have worked and as I understand the laws and our limitations in scopes of practice surrounding dispensing of medications, RNs are not legally able to do legally do this. Only a pharmacist can dispense, including repackage and relabel medications. That said, you can immediately take from a bottle to a package if that is being given to the patient immediately by the RN who is doing the preparing (as you would in a SNF). You cannot put into smaller packages and give to the patient to take at a later date (weekend doses). You cannot prepare packages given by other nurses.  

    California may have a different law related to dispensing. I think Ann Raftery would know that answer (for California) but am not sure she is in the office this week. I am eager to hear if it does and any policies surrounding the application of RNs doing this in the field. It may be something we could propose expanding in other states. 

    So, I am sorry, I don't have what you are seeking and I commented but I believe you are bringing up a VERY good question and again, I am eager to hear more weigh in. For anyone sharing policies, procedures or protocols around this, I would like to ask that they touch on how they arrived at those and if their state has laws which allow nurses to dispense (i.e. different dispensing definition). 

    Hope you all have a superb Labor Day!

    Respectfully,

    ~Ann

     

    Ann Scarpita BSN, MPH

    TB Nurse Consultant

    Tuberculosis Program

    Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment

    4300 Cherry Creek Drive South, Denver, CO 80246

    303.692.2656|  F 303.759.5538

    "Wisdom is knowing the right path. Integrity is taking it." ~M.H. McKee

    Confidentiality Notice: This electronic transmission and any attached documents or other writings are intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return e-mail and destroy the communication. Any disclosure, copying, distribution or the taking of any action concerning the contents of this communication or any attachments by anyone other than the named recipient is strictly prohibited.

     

    On Fri, Aug 31, 2018 at 6:47 PM, TB nurse communication <nobody@simplelists.com> wrote:

    Repacking Medications - Katie Kelsch (31 Aug 2018 11:16 EDT) Repacking Medications by Katie Kelsch (31 Aug 2018 11:16 EDT)
    Reply to list

    Hi all,

     

    This is for small/medium size counties, without a chest clinic and without a pharmacy.  We are looking for Policies and Procedures around RNs repacking medications in to the DOT Packets.  We receive the medications from our patients (filled at commercial pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens).  We then create individual DOT packets in small plastic envelopes.  Some concerns/questions that have come up are focused around:

     

    ·         Labeling

    ·         Child Poisoning Prevention Act

    ·         The actual physical repackaging of medication

     

    Thank you all!  Have a safe Labor Day weekend.

     

    Katie

     

    Katie Kelsch, BSN, RN, PHN

    Senior Public Health Nurse

    Yolo County Health and Human Services Agency

    137 N. Cottonwood Street

    Woodland, CA 95695

    Office: 530-666-8339 (direct)

    Fax: 530-669-1549 (confidential)

     

    Please consider the environment before printing this email.

     

    YOLO COUNTY EMAIL DISCLAIMER:

    This email and any attachments thereto may contain private, confidential, and privileged material for the sole use of the intended recipient.  Any review, copying, or distribution of this email (or any attachments thereto) by other than the County of Yolo or the intended recipient is strictly prohibited.  if you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender immediately and permanently delete the original and any copies of this email and any attachments. 

     

    To reply to a posting, simply reply. To start a new thread, address it to
    tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com and put in a concise subject line.
    You are on the daily digest setting for the listserve.The archives for
    this list are at http://ntca.simplelists.com/tbnurses.
    If you have problems with the listserve, please contact Lorna
    Will at lwill@tbcontrollers.org

    To reply to a posting, simply reply. To start a new thread, address it to
    tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com and put in a concise subject line.
    You are on the daily digest setting for the listserve.The archives for
    this list are at http://ntca.simplelists.com/tbnurses.
    If you have problems with the listserve, please contact Lorna
    Will at lwill@tbcontrollers.org

    To reply to a posting, simply reply. To start a new thread, address it to
    tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com and put in a concise subject line.
    You are on the daily digest setting for the listserve.The archives for
    this list are at http://ntca.simplelists.com/tbnurses.
    If you have problems with the listserve, please contact Lorna
    Will at lwill@tbcontrollers.org

    RE: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by Belinda Davis (05 Sep 2018 11:57 EDT)
    Reply to list

    Hello Everyone!

     

    We had the same issue.  We have the meds bubble packed and can request that the pharmacy do weekend packaging for the month.  We keep the M-F packet at the clinic and the patient has the weekend packet at home.  The pharmacy does all the packaging. 

     

     

    Belinda Davis, RN, BSN

    TB Nurse Case Manager

    Pima County Health Department

    2980 E. Ajo Way

    Tucson, AZ  85713

    520-724-8461 office

    520-981-0631 cell

    520-294-1092 fax

     

     

     

    From: TB nurse communication <nobody@simplelists.com>
    Sent: Tuesday, September 4, 2018 5:34 PM
    To: tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com
    Subject: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com

     

    ******* This message and sender come from outside Pima County. If you did not expect this message, proceed with caution. Verify the sender's identity before performing any action, such as clicking on a link or opening an attachment. *******    

    (Previous discussion continued)

    Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - Fortune, Diana, DOH (03 Sep 2018 22:14 EDT)

    Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by Fortune, Diana, DOH (03 Sep 2018 22:14 EDT)
    Reply to list

    ​Hi all,

    In New Mexico it is exactly as Ann described. We cannot per state pharmacy rules repackage medications into SAT packets for weekend dosing without a pharmacist or MD  physically signing the packets/bottles.  That becomes dispensing medications and is not allowed.  For DOT workers or others who may be supervising DOT - the patient must open the bottle of medications and give themselves or (child) the medications while the DOT worker observes the dosage.  Of course RNs can administer medications just as we would in a hospital environment.

    Not being able to send SAT packages for weekend dosing is inconvenient and difficult to manage.  Wish there was an easier way to do so!

    Diana Fortune

    From: TB nurse communication <nobody@simplelists.com>
    Sent: Monday, September 3, 2018 6:22 PM
    To: tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com
    Subject: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com

     

    (Previous discussion continued) Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - Scarpita - CDPHE, Ann (03 Sep 2018 11:15 EDT) Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by Scarpita - CDPHE, Ann (03 Sep 2018 11:15 EDT)
    Reply to list

    Good Morning, All and Happy Labor Day! 

    Your question is a good one. Something I believe we have all questioned ourselves at some point. I have looked into this in the two states I have worked and as I understand the laws and our limitations in scopes of practice surrounding dispensing of medications, RNs are not legally able to do legally do this. Only a pharmacist can dispense, including repackage and relabel medications. That said, you can immediately take from a bottle to a package if that is being given to the patient immediately by the RN who is doing the preparing (as you would in a SNF). You cannot put into smaller packages and give to the patient to take at a later date (weekend doses). You cannot prepare packages given by other nurses.  

    California may have a different law related to dispensing. I think Ann Raftery would know that answer (for California) but am not sure she is in the office this week. I am eager to hear if it does and any policies surrounding the application of RNs doing this in the field. It may be something we could propose expanding in other states. 

    So, I am sorry, I don't have what you are seeking and I commented but I believe you are bringing up a VERY good question and again, I am eager to hear more weigh in. For anyone sharing policies, procedures or protocols around this, I would like to ask that they touch on how they arrived at those and if their state has laws which allow nurses to dispense (i.e. different dispensing definition). 

    Hope you all have a superb Labor Day!

    Respectfully,

    ~Ann

     

    Ann Scarpita BSN, MPH

    TB Nurse Consultant

    Tuberculosis Program

    Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment

    4300 Cherry Creek Drive South, Denver, CO 80246

    303.692.2656|  F 303.759.5538

    "Wisdom is knowing the right path. Integrity is taking it." ~M.H. McKee

    Confidentiality Notice: This electronic transmission and any attached documents or other writings are intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return e-mail and destroy the communication. Any disclosure, copying, distribution or the taking of any action concerning the contents of this communication or any attachments by anyone other than the named recipient is strictly prohibited.

     

    On Fri, Aug 31, 2018 at 6:47 PM, TB nurse communication <nobody@simplelists.com> wrote:

    Repacking Medications - Katie Kelsch (31 Aug 2018 11:16 EDT) Repacking Medications by Katie Kelsch (31 Aug 2018 11:16 EDT)
    Reply to list

    Hi all,

     

    This is for small/medium size counties, without a chest clinic and without a pharmacy.  We are looking for Policies and Procedures around RNs repacking medications in to the DOT Packets.  We receive the medications from our patients (filled at commercial pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens).  We then create individual DOT packets in small plastic envelopes.  Some concerns/questions that have come up are focused around:

     

    ·         Labeling

    ·         Child Poisoning Prevention Act

    ·         The actual physical repackaging of medication

     

    Thank you all!  Have a safe Labor Day weekend.

     

    Katie

     

    Katie Kelsch, BSN, RN, PHN

    Senior Public Health Nurse

    Yolo County Health and Human Services Agency

    137 N. Cottonwood Street

    Woodland, CA 95695

    Office: 530-666-8339 (direct)

    Fax: 530-669-1549 (confidential)

     

    Please consider the environment before printing this email.

     

    YOLO COUNTY EMAIL DISCLAIMER:

    This email and any attachments thereto may contain private, confidential, and privileged material for the sole use of the intended recipient.  Any review, copying, or distribution of this email (or any attachments thereto) by other than the County of Yolo or the intended recipient is strictly prohibited.  if you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender immediately and permanently delete the original and any copies of this email and any attachments. 

     

    To reply to a posting, simply reply. To start a new thread, address it to
    tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com and put in a concise subject line.
    You are on the daily digest setting for the listserve.The archives for
    this list are at http://ntca.simplelists.com/tbnurses.
    If you have problems with the listserve, please contact Lorna
    Will at lwill@tbcontrollers.org

    To reply to a posting, simply reply. To start a new thread, address it to
    tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com and put in a concise subject line.
    You are on the daily digest setting for the listserve.The archives for
    this list are at http://ntca.simplelists.com/tbnurses.
    If you have problems with the listserve, please contact Lorna
    Will at lwill@tbcontrollers.org

    To reply to a posting, simply reply. To start a new thread, address it to
    tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com and put in a concise subject line.
    You are on the daily digest setting for the listserve.The archives for
    this list are at http://ntca.simplelists.com/tbnurses.
    If you have problems with the listserve, please contact Lorna
    Will at lwill@tbcontrollers.org

    To reply to a posting, simply reply. To start a new thread, address it to
    tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com and put in a concise subject line.
    You are on the daily digest setting for the listserve.The archives for
    this list are at http://ntca.simplelists.com/tbnurses.
    If you have problems with the listserve, please contact Lorna
    Will at lwill@tbcontrollers.org

    To reply to a posting, simply reply. To start a new thread, address it to
    tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com and put in a concise subject line.
    You are on the daily digest setting for the listserve.The archives for
    this list are at http://ntca.simplelists.com/tbnurses.
    If you have problems with the listserve, please contact Lorna
    Will at lwill@tbcontrollers.org


RE: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by Patricia Woods (07 Sep 2018 10:17 EDT)
Reply to list

    HI All,

     

    It is pretty much the same here in NJ to what has been stated.  Some clinics have decided to leave the bottles in the home with the patient and observe. Must patients understand this and comply. It would be the same if they were on E-DOT.

    Some clinics will bring the bottles with them to have the patient open them and the observe and leave the bottles for the weekend or collect on Monday.

     

    Patty

     

    Patricia Woods, RN, MSN

    Nurse Manager

    NJMS Global Tuberculosis Institute, ICP, 1st Floor, East Wing

    Lattimore Clinic

     

    Rutgers, State University of New Jersey

    225 Warren St, Newark, NJ 07103

    p. 973-972-3830     f. 973-972-3832

    patty.woods@rutgers.edu

     

    Website: globaltb.njms.rutgers.edu

     

     

    From: TB nurse communication [mailto:nobody@simplelists.com]
    Sent: Tuesday, September 04, 2018 8:34 PM
    To: tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com
    Subject: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com

     

    (Previous discussion continued)

    Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - Fortune, Diana, DOH (03 Sep 2018 22:14 EDT)

    Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by Fortune, Diana, DOH (03 Sep 2018 22:14 EDT)
    Reply to list

    ​Hi all,

    In New Mexico it is exactly as Ann described. We cannot per state pharmacy rules repackage medications into SAT packets for weekend dosing without a pharmacist or MD  physically signing the packets/bottles.  That becomes dispensing medications and is not allowed.  For DOT workers or others who may be supervising DOT - the patient must open the bottle of medications and give themselves or (child) the medications while the DOT worker observes the dosage.  Of course RNs can administer medications just as we would in a hospital environment.

    Not being able to send SAT packages for weekend dosing is inconvenient and difficult to manage.  Wish there was an easier way to do so!

    Diana Fortune

    From: TB nurse communication <nobody@simplelists.com>
    Sent: Monday, September 3, 2018 6:22 PM
    To: tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com
    Subject: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com

     

    (Previous discussion continued) Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com - Scarpita - CDPHE, Ann (03 Sep 2018 11:15 EDT) Re: Daily digest for tbnurses@ntca.simplelists.com by Scarpita - CDPHE, Ann (03 Sep 2018 11:15 EDT)
    Reply to list

    Good Morning, All and Happy Labor Day! 

    Your question is a good one. Something I believe we have all questioned ourselves at some point. I have looked into this in the two states I have worked and as I understand the laws and our limitations in scopes of practice surrounding dispensing of medications, RNs are not legally able to do legally do this. Only a pharmacist can dispense, including repackage and relabel medications. That said, you can immediately take from a bottle to a package if that is being given to the patient immediately by the RN who is doing the preparing (as you would in a SNF). You cannot put into smaller packages and give to the patient to take at a later date (weekend doses). You cannot prepare packages given by other nurses.  

    California may have a different law related to dispensing. I think Ann Raftery would know that answer (for California) but am not sure she is in the office this week. I am eager to hear if it does and any policies surrounding the application of RNs doing this in the field. It may be something we could propose expanding in other states. 

    So, I am sorry, I don't have what you are seeking and I commented but I believe you are bringing up a VERY good question and again, I am eager to hear more weigh in. For anyone sharing policies, procedures or protocols around this, I would like to ask that they touch on how they arrived at those and if their state has laws which allow nurses to dispense (i.e. different dispensing definition). 

    Hope you all have a superb Labor Day!

    Respectfully,

    ~Ann

     

    Ann Scarpita BSN, MPH

    TB Nurse Consultant

    Tuberculosis Program

    Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment

    4300 Cherry Creek Drive South, Denver, CO 80246

    303.692.2656|  F 303.759.5538

    "Wisdom is knowing the right path. Integrity is taking it." ~M.H. McKee

    Confidentiality Notice: This electronic transmission and any attached documents or other writings are intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return e-mail and destroy the communication. Any disclosure, copying, distribution or the taking of any action concerning the contents of this communication or any attachments by anyone other than the named recipient is strictly prohibited.

     

    On Fri, Aug 31, 2018 at 6:47 PM, TB nurse communication <nobody@simplelists.com> wrote:

    Repacking Medications - Katie Kelsch (31 Aug 2018 11:16 EDT) Repacking Medications by Katie Kelsch (31 Aug 2018 11:16 EDT)
    Reply to list

    Hi all,

     

    This is for small/medium size counties, without a chest clinic and without a pharmacy.  We are looking for Policies and Procedures around RNs repacking medications in to the DOT Packets.  We receive the medications from our patients (filled at commercial pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens).  We then create individual DOT packets in small plastic envelopes.  Some concerns/questions that have come up are focused around:

     

    ·         Labeling

    ·         Child Poisoning Prevention Act

    ·         The actual physical repackaging of medication

     

    Thank you all!  Have a safe Labor Day weekend.

     

    Katie

     

    Katie Kelsch, BSN, RN, PHN

    Senior Public Health Nurse

    Yolo County Health and Human Services Agency

    137 N. Cottonwood Street

    Woodland, CA 95695

    Office: 530-666-8339 (direct)

    Fax: 530-669-1549 (confidential)

     

    Please consider the environment before printing this email.

     

    YOLO COUNTY EMAIL DISCLAIMER:

    This email and any attachments thereto may contain private, confidential, and privileged material for the sole use of the intended recipient.  Any review, copying, or distribution of this email (or any attachments thereto) by other than the County of Yolo or the intended recipient is strictly prohibited.  if you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender immediately and permanently delete the original and any copies of this email and any attachments. 

     

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