Rapid Message Testing with Consumer Panel-Caregiver Tipsheet

Caring for Others:
Tips for Medicines
and Devices
You want to help your loved ones stay as healthy as they can
be. But it can be hard if they need help with their medicines
and devices. Many women and other family caregivers, like
you, worry about making a medical mistake. You may also want
to know how to get more information about your loved one’s
treatments.
Whether you are checking in from afar or helping your loved
one 24/7, you can use these four (4) tips to help you both use
medicines and devices wisely.

www.fda.gov/caregivertips

1. Get the Facts
2. Follow Directions
3. Stay Organized
4. Be Prepared

September 2017

Tips for Medicines
and Devices
GET THE FACTS

FOLLOW DIRECTIONS

You need to know what each medicine is for and
how they should take it.You also need to know
how each device works. When you go to the
doctor, you or your loved one should ask:

Taking too much or too little medicine can make
your loved one very sick. Use the medicines and
devices as directed. Before you start:

What is the name of the medicine?
How much medicine do they take and when
should they take it?
What are the side effects or special warnings?
What can we do if they have problems taking
or tolerating their medicine?

Ask
for help.

Use the right tool.
Give the right amount.

Read the labeling and
other information.

Read the directions on how
to clean your device. You
should not use household
cleaners on some devices.

How do we safely get rid of old or unused
medicine and devices?

STAY ORGANIZED

BE PREPARED

Simple steps can help keep your loved one safe
and on track with their treatments. They can also
help make your work easier.

Don’t be caught off guard. Make a plan for
emergencies.
You may not be able to get to the drug
store. Pack a kit with medical supplies and
batteries.
Add a copy of your loved one’s medicine list
and other medical information.

Keep
a list.

Set
reminders.

Lock
medicines up
and away.

Keep track of any changes in your loved one’s
health. Report problems to their healthcare
provider. Then tell FDA at:
www.fda.gov/MedWatch/Report

Ask how to handle medicines or devices
affected by flood water or heat.
Tell the electric company and fire department
if there is a medical device that needs power
in their home.

Learn more at: www.fda.gov/caregivertips