For people taking one or more types of medication, keeping track of these and dosage times can be challenging. To make it easier to remember when to take medications, that is, the days and times, a range of equipment is available that is easily transportable from home to work as a reminder.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
For people who need to take medication at work on a regular basis, there are many options available to ensure that the medication is taken at the required time and that the correct dosage is also taken.
The type of medication dosage guide used will depend on the amount and frequency of medication taken by the person, storage requirements for medications and whether an alarm system is required as a reminder. The following types of medication dosage guides are available:
Pill boxes
Pill boxes are small containers separated into compartments for days and times of the week. Depending on the amount of medication taken, they can be as simple as seven compartments, for example, one tablet taken each day of the week. If multiple medications are taken at different times, pill boxes are available with compartments such as Monday am and Monday pm or for particular times during the day. Other boxes are available to place medication in for a whole month, although it is important to check storage requirements of medications.
People using medication or their carers can place medication in these boxes in advance to facilitate easier management of medication. This is especially useful if the person is finding it difficult to remember if or when they took their medication and what the right medications are to take at specific times.
Pill boxes with alarms
Pill boxes with alarms are similar to a standard pill box, however come with either digital or manual alarms. These can be set as required to alert the person that it is time to take medication. For people who are easily distracted or experience memory difficulties these are especially helpful.
Key ring pill keepers
Key ring pill keepers are available that attach to a key ring for those needing to transport only small amounts of medication when out of the home. Some of these are also useful for transporting specialist medication that cannot be placed in pill boxes.
Reminder alarms
A range of medication alarms, such as watches, can be set to activate when medication is due to be taken. This helps people with memory difficulties to independently manage medications especially when at work.
Blister pack systems
Blister pack systems are an alternative to a pill box. Daily, weekly or monthly medications can be placed into a blister pack system that is marked accordingly. These are lightweight and easy to carry in a small bag to work. Blister pack systems are available to do at home in a kit version or can be done through some pharmacies.
When considering medication dosage guides, the following links may be useful:
References
Independent Living Centres Australia Inc. 2011, Medication Management, Independent Living Centres Australia Inc, Sydney, viewed 6 February 2011, http://www.ilcaustralia.org/search3.asp?State=VIC&MC=11&MinC=77.