iCQ Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Medication Administration
Course Overview
This qualification gives you a solid understanding of medication administration — how medicines are obtained, stored, administered, recorded and disposed of correctly.
It covers legislation, responsibilities, record keeping, consent, error reporting and safe handling so that medication use protects individuals, staff and organisations.
Assessment is through a structured portfolio. No exams. It builds knowledge only — you do not need to be physically administering medication in a job role to complete this.
Who Is This For?
Ideal for staff in:
Adult social care
Domiciliary support
Community services
Residential and nursing settings
It also suits anyone who is moving into roles where medication handling will become part of their responsibility.
Suitable for learners aged 19+.
What You Will Learn
You complete 6 mandatory units (16 credits in total). Together they cover compliance, safe practice and the rights of individuals receiving medication.
You will learn:
Regulatory requirements for medication records — receipt, administration and disposal
Correct documentation, signatures and keeping accurate records
Medicines reconciliation — what must be recorded and shared
Stock level checks, pharmacy roles, manufacturer guidance and external audits
Medicines-related safeguarding incidents — identifying, reporting and preventing recurrence
(H/617/6486 – 3 credits, 25 GLH)
Covers:
Accountability and responsibility in medication administration
Who does what — prescribing, dispensing, receiving, storing, supporting and administering
Specialist administration methods — injections, PEG, inhalation, rectal
Supporting people to self-administer safely
Risk assessments for self-medication
Gaining consent and working in best interests if consent is unclear
Where to seek advice after errors, reactions or record discrepancies
Understanding your own role limits and why they matter
(J/617/6481 – 3 credits, 25 GLH)
You will understand:
Medication classifications — POM, P, GSL and Controlled Drugs
What common medication groups are used for — antibiotics, analgesics, anticoagulants, hormones, etc
Routes of administration — oral, topical, inhaled, buccal, IV, PEG and more
Aids and equipment used to support safe administration
Monitoring medicines — side effects, physiological checks, Yellow Card reporting
The difference between allergic reactions and adverse reactions
(L/617/6482 – 3 credits, 25 GLH)
Key areas:
The Six R’s of medication administration — and why they keep people safe
Pre-administration checks — identity, MAR, dose, environment, equipment
Minimising distractions and following product instructions
Infection control before, during and after administration
Observing and recording outcomes
PRN medication and how to monitor its use
Controlled drug administration procedures
What to do if:
A person refuses medication
A medication form is unsuitable
An error or discrepancy occurs
When and how medication reviews must take place
(M/617/6488 – 3 credits, 25 GLH)
You will cover:
Prescriptions and supplied information — where to find what you need
What to check and record on receipt
Pros and cons of monitored dosage systems
Emergency medication and transfers between settings
Secure storage in different environments — clinical, care homes, domiciliary care and self-medication
Safe disposal of unwanted or expired medication and equipment
Special requirements for Controlled Drugs
(Y/617/6484 – 2 credits, 15 GLH)
Includes:
Roles of NICE and the Royal Pharmaceutical Society
Approved national medication reference sources
Legal requirements — confidentiality, access to records, accuracy and security
Consequences of poor practice — safety risks, legal action and disciplinary issues
Level 2 knowledge-based qualification
Portfolio of evidence
Guided Learning Hours: 130
Total Qualification Time: 160 hours
Assessed and quality assured by the centre with external verification from iCQ
This qualification supports career development into:
Senior support roles in adult social care
Medication responsibilities within community, residential or assisted living services
Further study such as:
Level 2 Diploma in Care
Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care
No formal entry requirements
Learners must be aged 19+
Centres complete initial assessment to confirm suitability
Qualification Details
Qualification Title: iCQ Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Medication Administration
Qualification Number (QAN): 603/4699/1
Level: 2
Framework: RQF
Credits: 16
GLH: 130
TQT: 160
Assessment Method: Portfolio of evidence
Overall Grade: Pass
Structure: 6 mandatory units
Availability: England only
