Information about high alert medications

Learn about high alert medications training for the Medication Administration Program (MAP).

Frequently asked questions

Who needs to be trained on high alert medications (e.g., warfarin sodium, clozapine, insulin via insulin pen) policies?

Only those MAP Certified staff (including relief staff), who administer or assist in the administration of a high alert medication are required to receive the training specific to the medication or medications.

What documentation does the MAP registered site need as evidence that a MAP Certified staff has been trained on a high alert medication?

For any/all of the high alert medications, the site must have documentation that includes the date of the training, the name(s) of the staff trained, and the name and contact information of the trainer. In addition, some high-alert medications require Evaluation Tool(s) that must be completed and retained at the site. Each high alert medication policy will include specific documentation requirements.

Who may provide training on the high alert medications?

Each high alert medication policy will include who may provide initial and subsequent training specific to the medication. 

Do relief staff need training on high alert medications?

Only those MAP Certified staff (including relief staff), who administer or assist in the administration of a high alert medication are required to receive the training specific to the medication(s). This would be similar to the administration of any other medication that requires training for MAP Certified staff. Examples include: staff needing to be vital sign trained to take blood pressure readings to administer medication in accordance with blood pressure medication order parameters; specific training for the administration of epinephrine by auto-injectors (EpiPens®); training to administer medications by G-tube, etc.  

More information

For more information on high-alert medication warfarin sodium, see MAP Policy 19-7 High Alert Medication-Warfarin Sodium (Coumadin) Therapy

For more information on high-alert medication clozapine, see MAP Policy 19-8 High Alert Medication-Clozapine (Clozaril) Therapy

For more information on high alert medication insulin via insulin pen, see MAP Policy 19-9 High Alert Medication-Insulin via Insulin Pen Administration

For more information about the Medication Administration Program, please contact:

Department	Contact number
Department of Public Health/Bureau of Health Professions Licensure	[phone]
Department of Developmental Services	[phone]
Department of Mental Health	[phone]
Departments of Children and Families	[phone]
MassAbility	[phone]