This lesson provides caregivers with an overview of OTC medications. It explains how to read an OTC medication label, gives tips to guard against tampering, discusses how OTC medications may affect children and the elderly and offers basic information about OTC pain relievers, cold medications, and stomach medications. The lesson also covers adverse drug reactions and how nurse aides can recognize them.

List at least five types of commonly used over-the-counter medications.
Describe the main side effects of the above medications.
Discuss your role in monitoring medications and side effects.
Describe the signs of an allergic reaction to a medication.
Demonstrate your knowledge of commonly used OTC medications in your daily work.