Are AMAPs allowed to given Ritalin and other controlled drugs?
There are no restrictions in the regulations regarding AMAPs administering controlled substances, provided that the medication is administered by a route that the aide is allowed (e.g., orally). As with any medication or treatment, it is ultimately up to the nurse supervising the AMAP to assess the AMAP, the consumer and the particular situation to determine if it is appropriate for the AMAP to administer any medication, including morphine derivatives and Ritalin, to a consumer. And as with any medication, it is the responsibility of the supervising RN to ensure that the AMAP has the appropriate training regarding the medication he/she is administering, including expected effects, side effects, untoward reactions, any administration requirements of the medication, and what reactions indicate that the RN and/or prescribing practitioner should be called.
