Free CQC audit template · Monthly
Medicines in care homes audit
A free 8-point audit for care homes. It evidences the CQC quality statement “Medicines optimisation” under the Safe key question (Reg 12), as processes. Built from NICE. Answer each check below and download a PDF report, or print a blank form.
Checks
- Medicines policy covers the areas NICE SC1 lists
- Medicines reconciled when people move into the home or return from hospital
- Records of administration complete
- PRN ("when required") protocols in place and followed
- Covert administration only after a best interests decision
- Controlled drugs managed and recorded correctly
- Medicines stored safely at the right temperature
- Staff trained and assessed as competent
Official sources
Official tool from the publisher
NICE: SC1 baseline assessment tool and care home medicines policy checklist
NICE: SC1 baseline assessment tool and care home medicines policy checklist
This checklist summarises the official guidance. Check the sources for the full requirements.
Related CQC templates
Vaccine fridge and cold chain logMedicines optimisation
From UKHSA (GOV.UK) · official toolHigh-risk drug monitoring searchMedicines optimisation
From CQC, MHRAMedicines support reviewMedicines optimisation
From NICE · official toolRemote prescribing decisions auditMedicines optimisation
From GMC and healthcare regulators, CQCSafe recruitment file check (per staff member)Safe and effective staffing
From CQC, NHS Employers, Home Office (GOV.UK) · official toolTraining matrix reviewSafe and effective staffing
From CQC
From UKHSA (GOV.UK) · official toolHigh-risk drug monitoring searchMedicines optimisation
From CQC, MHRAMedicines support reviewMedicines optimisation
From NICE · official toolRemote prescribing decisions auditMedicines optimisation
From GMC and healthcare regulators, CQCSafe recruitment file check (per staff member)Safe and effective staffing
From CQC, NHS Employers, Home Office (GOV.UK) · official toolTraining matrix reviewSafe and effective staffing
From CQC
Templates summarise official guidance as of October 2026. They do not replace it: always check the linked source for the full requirements. Audit Angel CQC is not affiliated with the Care Quality Commission.
Know your gaps before the inspector does.
Set-up takes ten minutes. Start with example evidence for your type of service, run your first audit, then replace the examples with your own.
Free during the pilotNo contractNo card needed