How to Read Medication Labels and Instructions
This guide helps you understand how to read both Dispill med cup packaging and unit-dose cards from Neighborhood LTC Pharmacy to safely and confidently administer medications.
👥 Who This Is For
Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), nurses, and IDD program administrators
📘 What You’ll Learn
How to read and understand the pharmacy-provided packaging and labels to make sure each medication is given correctly and safely.
Dispill Med Cup Packaging
Dispill is a multi-med packaging system that organizes medications by time of day.- Each Dispill card covers one full week
- Rows are color-coded by administration time:
- 🟡 Yellow = Morning
- ⚪️ White = Midday
- 🟠 Orange = Evening
- 🔵 Blue = Bedtime
- Each bubble contains all medications due at that specific time
- The top label includes:
- Individual’s name and photo
- Medication names, strengths, and directions
- Pill images and imprint codes
- Simply peel open the bubble when it’s time to give the medications
Use the name and photo on the label to double-check you’re administering to the correct individual.
Unit-Dose Packaging
Unit-dose packaging separates medications into individual blister packs, one medication per slot.
- Each card contains one medication and one dose per bubble
- Medication label includes:
- Drug name, strength, and dosage form
- Administration time (morning, midday, evening, or bedtime)
- Start and stop dates, if needed
- Used alongside the individual’s MAR or eMAR
- Often used for PRNs or when a single medication is packaged separately
Unlike Dispill, unit-dose packs do not group medications by administration time. Always check the MAR or eMAR to confirm what’s due.
Important Reminders
- Always verify the individual’s name, photo (if available), and administration time
- Use the back label on Dispill to match pills with descriptions and images
- Never give medications from a damaged or unclear bubble
- Document administration immediately
- Contact Neighborhood LTC Pharmacy if you have any concerns or questions