CMT CMT Medication Storage and Handling 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the correct action when a medication label is damaged and unreadable?
- Guess the medication based on its appearance
- Do not administer and return to pharmacy for replacement (Correct answer)
- Relabel it yourself based on your knowledge
- Administer it if the container looks familiar
Correct answer: Do not administer and return to pharmacy for replacement
If a medication label is unreadable, the medication must never be administered; it should be returned to the pharmacy for proper replacement.
Question 2: Nitroglycerin tablets should be stored in which type of container?
- Standard plastic prescription bottle
- Original amber glass container (Correct answer)
- Paper envelope
- Clear plastic bag
Correct answer: Original amber glass container
Nitroglycerin is highly sensitive to light, heat, and moisture and must remain in its original amber glass container to remain effective.
Question 3: How should a medication technician handle a manufacturer medication recall?
- Continue administering until existing supply runs out
- Immediately remove from circulation and notify the pharmacist and supervisor (Correct answer)
- Store separately and use only in emergencies
- Return to manufacturer without notifying any staff
Correct answer: Immediately remove from circulation and notify the pharmacist and supervisor
Recalled medications must be immediately removed from use and the pharmacist and supervisor must be notified per facility protocol.
Question 4: What temperature range is defined as 'refrigerated' for medication storage?
- 0°F to 32°F (-18°C to 0°C)
- 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) (Correct answer)
- 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 16°C)
- 60°F to 70°F (16°C to 21°C)
Correct answer: 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C)
Refrigerated medications must be stored between 36°F and 46°F (2°C to 8°C) to maintain their effectiveness and stability.
Question 5: Which of the following is a warning sign that a medication may have been improperly stored?
- Sealed original packaging
- Discoloration, unusual odor, or clumping (Correct answer)
- Clear, colorless appearance as expected
- Intact manufacturer label
Correct answer: Discoloration, unusual odor, or clumping
Physical changes such as discoloration, unusual odors, or clumping indicate a medication may have degraded due to improper storage conditions.
Question 6: In what order should medication stock be used from storage to prevent expiration?
- Newest stock first (LIFO)
- Oldest stock first (FIFO — First In, First Out) (Correct answer)
- Alphabetical order by drug name
- Random order based on convenience
Correct answer: Oldest stock first (FIFO — First In, First Out)
The FIFO (First In, First Out) method ensures older medications with earlier expiration dates are used before newer stock.
CMT CMT Medication Storage and Handling 2
What is the correct action when a medication label is damaged and unreadable?