Medication Storage and Handling Flashcards
7 cards from real MACE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Medication Storage and Handling flashcards as text
What is the proper procedure for disposing of an unused controlled substance in a long-term care facility?
Answer: Follow DEA and facility guidelines, witnessed by two authorized staff members and documented
Controlled substance disposal requires adherence to DEA regulations, facility policy, documentation, and a witness — typically two licensed staff members — to prevent diversion.
At what temperature should insulin vials or pens be stored when they are opened and in current use?
Answer: At room temperature (below 77°F/25°C) for up to 28 days
Once opened, most insulin vials and pens can be kept at room temperature below 77°F (25°C) for up to 28 days, reducing injection discomfort and the risk of lipodystrophy.
What does it mean when a medication is labeled as 'photosensitive'?
Answer: It degrades when exposed to light and must be kept in opaque or dark packaging
Photosensitive medications break down chemically when exposed to light, requiring storage in opaque, amber, or light-resistant containers to maintain potency.
How should eye drops be stored after opening to prevent contamination?
Answer: Kept with each individual resident, labeled with the opening date, and used within the recommended timeframe
Eye drops are for individual resident use only, must be labeled with the date opened, and discarded according to manufacturer or pharmacy guidelines to prevent contamination and infection.
What is the maximum acceptable time a medication cart should be left unlocked and unattended?
Answer: It should never be left unlocked and unattended
A medication cart must be locked whenever the medication aide is not actively using it, even briefly, to prevent unauthorized access and protect resident safety.
Which of the following is the correct way to handle a medication that has been dropped on the floor?
Answer: Discard the dropped medication and obtain a replacement dose
A medication that has been dropped on the floor is considered contaminated and must be discarded; a new dose must be obtained to ensure safety and sterility.
When transferring medications from bulk stock to a resident's individual supply, which step is most critical?
Answer: Verifying and transferring the original label information accurately to the new container
Accurate transfer of all label information — including drug name, strength, dose, directions, resident name, and prescriber — is critical to prevent medication errors.