Medication Safety Flashcards

A resident is prescribed a controlled substance. What additional documentation is typically required?

Answer: Signature on a controlled substance count sheet

Controlled substances require a count sheet with signatures to track every dose dispensed and administered, ensuring accountability.

Which route of administration delivers medication through the respiratory tract?

Answer: Inhalation

Inhalation delivers medication directly to the lungs via inhalers or nebulizers, providing rapid onset for conditions like asthma.

What should the medication aide do if a medication has expired?

Answer: Do not administer it and notify the nurse

Expired medications must never be given; potency and safety cannot be guaranteed after the expiration date, and the nurse must be notified.

A resident taking a blood thinner (anticoagulant) reports unusual bruising. The medication aide should:

Answer: Document the observation and report it to the nurse immediately

Unusual bruising can indicate anticoagulant toxicity; the nurse must be notified immediately so the resident can be evaluated.

Which storage condition is required for most medications unless otherwise specified?

Answer: Stored at room temperature in a locked, secure area

Most medications should be stored at room temperature in a locked, secure area to maintain efficacy and prevent unauthorized access.

What is the purpose of documenting medications immediately after administration?

Answer: To prevent double-dosing and provide a legal record of care

Immediate post-administration documentation prevents double-dosing and creates a legally accurate record of care given.

A resident who normally takes pills is now prescribed the same medication in liquid form. The medication aide should:

Answer: Verify the correct dose in liquid form with the MAR and nurse before administering

Liquid medication doses often differ from solid forms; the MAR must be checked and the nurse consulted to confirm the correct liquid dose.