Medication — The Five Rights
Version 1.0 · Last reviewed July 2026 · Review cadence: Quarterly (immediate on major guideline changes)
CHECK ALL FIVE, EVERY DOSE, IN WRITING
1. Right CHILD — confirm which child the medication is for (critical with siblings or multiples).
2. Right MEDICATION — read the label; confirm it matches the family’s and pediatrician’s written instruction.
3. Right DOSE — measure with the dosing tool provided (a marked syringe or cup, never a kitchen spoon).
4. Right TIME — confirm it is due; confirm when the last dose was given.
5. Right ROUTE — oral, topical, etc., as prescribed.
THE NON-NEGOTIABLE RULE
Give only medication the family has authorized in writing, in the dose and on the schedule they specified. Never give a medication — including over-the-counter medication — on your own judgment. Log every dose immediately: child, medication, dose, date, exact time, and your initials. The log protects the child (no double-dosing) and protects you.