Medication safety and efficiency are critical components to long term care facilities’ success. With many patients on complex regiments, how medications are packaged and administered can have a significant impact on outcomes.
Two of the most widely used packaging formats are blister packaging and strip packaging. While both serve the same core function, they differ in structure, application, and benefits.
For facility administrators, nurses, and caregivers, choosing between these two formats is a strategic decision that can affect workflow, patient safety, and compliance.
Blister packaging is a familiar format in healthcare, where medications are individually sealed in small plastic “blisters” with a foil backing, which can be popped open for each dose. This format is particularly common in single-dose packaging, but it’s also used for weekly or monthly multi-dose layouts.
One of the main benefits of medical blister packaging is its visibility. Nurses and caregivers can immediately see whether a dose has been administered, which helps reduce the risk of missed medications. Another key advantage is tamper evidence. The sealed compartments make it obvious if a dose has been removed or tampered with, which supports regulatory compliance and resident safety.
However, a disadvantage is that blister packaging tends to take up more space, particularly when used for multiple medications per resident. In addition, while blister packs offer visual clarity, they may not integrate as easily with automated dispensing or electronic MAR systems as other formats, such as strip packaging.
Strip packaging is a modern alternative that’s increasingly popular in institutional settings. In this format, medications are sealed in connected, perforated pouches that are often rolled up for easy storage. Each pouch typically contains one dose or a combination of medications scheduled for a specific administration time.
One of the biggest benefits of medication strip packaging is that each pouch can be printed with personalized details, including the resident’s name, dosage, administration time, and even barcode data for scanning. Strip packaging pairs especially well with automated medication dispensing systems, making it a strong choice for facilities using advanced pharmacy technology.
When evaluating whether blister or strip packaging is the best fit, facilities should assess the specific needs of their residents, staff, and operations. Facilities with traditional med pass routines may prefer the familiarity of blister packs, while those incorporating more technology into their workflow may find strip packaging more compatible.
Consider how your packaging choice aligns with your facility’s technology infrastructure and regulatory responsibilities. If your community uses barcode scanning or digital medication administration tools, strip packaging may offer better integration. Both formats support safety and compliance, but blister packs may offer added peace of mind during inspections thanks to their visibility and tamper-evidence features.
Choosing between blister packaging and medication strip packaging depends on your facility’s size, staffing, technology infrastructure, and resident needs. By carefully assessing your priorities and partnering with an experienced long-term care pharmacy, you can select the solution that delivers the best outcomes for your community.
Contact us today to explore your options and optimize your medication packaging strategy, or visit primecareltc.com to learn more.
See how we can enhance your facility’s processes. The Prime Care team is to support your pursuit of optimal care for your residents.
420 Country Club Drive, Bensenville, IL 60106
info@primecareltc.com
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