NI RQIA Guidance

SOPs for Controlled Drugs in Registered Care Facilities - Northern Ireland

The Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) published guidance to help registered care facilities in Northern Ireland develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the management of controlled drugs. The guidance implements requirements under the Health Act 2006 and the Controlled Drugs (Supervision of Management and Use) Regulations (NI) 2009, which were introduced following the Fourth Report of the Shipman Inquiry. Care homes, nursing homes, and children's homes must have written SOPs covering access, storage, security, disposal, and record-keeping for controlled drugs.

Safeguarding Children and Young People in Northern Ireland Policy

The RQIA has issued guidance on co-operating to safeguard children and young people in Northern Ireland. This policy outlines the legislative context, principles, and responsibilities of various bodies, including Health and Social Care, Justice, and Education sectors, in protecting children.

RQIA Guidance on Dental Care Abroad

The RQIA has issued guidance for individuals considering travelling abroad for dental treatment. The document outlines potential risks, emphasizes the importance of researching foreign dental regulations and professional registration, and advises consulting with a UK dentist before proceeding.

RQIA Medicines Management Audit Tool for Care Homes

The RQIA (Northern Ireland) has released a Medicines Management Audit Tool template for care homes. Developed in collaboration with care homes, this tool aims to assist managers and providers in developing their own audit processes for medication management.

Medicines Management Audit Tool for Children's Homes

The RQIA has released an audit tool to assist managers and providers of children's homes in monitoring the management of medicines. The tool covers areas such as training, competency, governance, and incident reporting, and references the Minimum Standards for Children's Homes.

Nursing Home Guidance on Medicine Disposal and Record Keeping

The Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) has issued guidance for nursing homes in Northern Ireland on the proper disposal of medicines, including controlled drugs. This guidance clarifies legislative requirements under the Controlled Waste Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2002 and the Waste Management Licensing Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003, effective December 1, 2011.