A major initiative to improve the safe use of medicines is the national standardisation of medicines management documentation in hospitals through medication charts.
The National Inpatient Medication Chart (NIMC) is a suite of nationally standard medication charts, both paper and electronic, that present and communicate information consistently between healthcare professionals providing care to patients on the intended use of medicines for an individual patient.
In 2008, Australian Health Ministers endorsed paediatric versions of the NIMC (acute) and NIMC (long stay). The paediatric NIMCs have additional features to improve prescribing safety for paediatric inpatients including neonates. Additional safety features include:
These charts should be used for all children aged 12 years and less.
The NIMC (long-stay) is designed for long-term, stable paediatric patients in acute care. For example, the NIMC (paediatric long-stay) may be suitable for patients in spinal units and rehabilitation units.
The NIMC (paediatric long-stay) available on the Commission web site has 18.5 days of administration although the number of administration days may be varied locally.
The following versions of the NIMC are available as high resolution and designed for professional printing. To receive a copy of the design files please contact the Commission.
The Commission held a seminar to assist public and private hospitals safely implement paediatric versions of the NIMC.
A report and of the seminar and presentations are available.