What is meant by "Pre-Pour" in medication preparation?

"Pre-pour" in medication preparation refers to the practice of pouring medication in advance of the scheduled time for the dose to be given. This procedure should be performed carefully, adhering to facility policies to ensure that the medication is given safely and effectively at the correct time. The main point of pre-pouring is to streamline the administration process, though it also brings about concerns regarding medication safety and the potential for error if the medication is not properly stored or if it is not administered within the appropriate timeframe.

While it may be tempting to mix medications prior to administration to save time, this practice is not included in the definition of pre-pouring and may lead to issues with medication interactions and accuracy in dosing. Discarding expired medications is a different process entirely, focusing on safety and compliance with regulations regarding medication storage. Administering medications in small amounts pertains to dosing specifics rather than the advance preparation of those doses.