Morgan is a radiological technologist working in an interventional radiology department. The attending radiologist gives an order for the administration of heparin, an anticoagulant.

Is this activity within Morgan’s scope of practice?

The ACMDTT has approval for members to perform some/all of the restricted activities, as identified in the Medical Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technologists Profession Regulation (the Regulation). Currently, only radiological technologists who hold a current and valid medication administration enhanced practice authorization on their practice permit may prepare and/or administer medications as part of their practice.

What training does Morgan have to do in order to perform this activity?

A College-approved program is required in order for Morgan to prepare and administer medication. This authorization provides that the regulated member has ensured they have the education and competence to perform the activity in compliance with the ACMDTT Regulation, Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics (as listed below) and employer policy.

Morgan should ask:

• Do I have the knowledge to perform this competently? (i.e. consider clinical procedures, pharmacology, adverse events)
• Do I have skills to perform this competently? (i.e., understanding contraindications, administration routes, administration rates, handling medications, identifying and handling adverse events)

What Standards of Practice apply to this scenario?

Standard 1.2 Clinical Procedures

To demonstrate this Standard, a regulated member will:

d. possess the necessary competence to perform the procedure safely, effectively and ethically

e. ensure patient safety

k. identify and communicate with the appropriate healthcare provider any procedural concerns

Standard 2.3 Restricted Activities/Enhanced Practice

To demonstrate this Standard, a regulated member will:

a. Perform only those restricted activities for which he or she has the required competence and current authorization.

b. Assess the benefits and risks associated with performing the restricted activity.

c. Be responsible and accountable for safely performing the restricted activity.

d. Understand the risks associated with performing the restricted activity and ensure that measures are in place to manage any critical or unexpected events associated with performing it.

Standard 4.2 Safe Practice

To demonstrate this Standard, a regulated member will:

b. Apply the applicable standards for the handling, use, storage and disposal of materials.

d. Apply the appropriate infection prevention and control standards to prevent contamination of persons, equipment and environment.

g. Seek clarification of orders where a patient safety issue has been identified.

Code of Ethics

Principle 3 Responsibility to oneself

b. Accountability

A regulated member takes responsibility and is accountable for his/her professional activities.