NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Safe Handling of Medicine

Aims

The qualification aims to help learners develop:

- an understanding of the classifications of drugs and how to find out information about drugs

- an awareness of how medication is dispensed and administered and the possible side effects of medication

- knowledge of the procedures for obtaining, storing and disposing of medicines

- an understanding of the legislation surrounding the supply and storage of medicines

- knowledge of quality control and the role of the pharmacist in the administration of medicine

- an awareness of the importance of responsibility, accountability and confidentiality in handling medicines

- a basis for further study and/or career development

Target Group

This course is designed for those who wish to develop their knowledge of the safe handling of medicines. These may be learners who wish to access this training with a view to progress to further qualifications, or learners who wish to study this programme in order to complement other programmes. The course is also suitable for learners wishing to develop knowledge to prepare them for

Employment or for learners who are already in employment and wish to study the programme as part of their own continuous professional development.

Entry Guidance

There are no specific recommended prior learning requirements for this qualification. Access to this qualification is open to all learners. However, a basic level of numeracy and literacy is required to comply with the Health and Safety and assessment aspects of the qualification. The minimum age for entry to this qualification is 18.

Progression Opportunities

The Level 2 Certificate in Safe Handling of Medicines aims to provide progression towards:

- First Certificate/Diploma in Health and Social Care

- NVQs at Level 2 and 3 in Health and Social Care

- NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety

- NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Safer Moving and Handling (including People)

- NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Infection Control

- NVQs at Level 2 in Clinical Laboratory Support

- Level 3 Award in the Control and Administration of Medicines

- Level 2 Certificate in Health and Social Care

The qualification can also provide progression to NCFE qualifications in other sectors. These include:

- NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Equality and Diversity

- NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Employment Skills