MACE Legal and Ethical Issues 3

Question 1

Which task is outside the scope of practice for a certified medication aide?

Accepted Answer

Administering intravenous (IV) medications

Answer

IV medication administration requires a nursing license and is outside the authorized scope of practice for a medication aide.

Question 2

A physician calls a medication aide directly and gives a verbal medication order. What should the aide do?

Accepted Answer

Follow facility policy, which typically requires a licensed nurse to take the verbal order

Answer

Medication aides generally cannot accept verbal physician orders; facility policy typically requires a licensed nurse to receive, verify, and document verbal orders.

Question 3

What is the potential consequence for a medication aide who practices outside their authorized scope of practice?

Accepted Answer

Loss of certification and potential civil or criminal legal liability

Answer

Practicing outside the authorized scope can result in permanent loss of certification, civil liability for patient harm, and in serious cases criminal charges.

Question 4

A medication aide discovers that a coworker is diverting (stealing) controlled substance medications. What should the aide do?

Accepted Answer

Report it immediately to a supervisor or the appropriate authority

Answer

Drug diversion is a federal crime that endangers patients; medication aides have a legal and ethical duty to report it immediately through proper channels.

Question 5

Which best describes the concept of 'duty of care' as it applies to a medication aide?

Accepted Answer

A legal obligation to provide competent care within their authorized scope of practice

Answer

Duty of care is a legal obligation requiring medication aides to deliver competent care within their scope; failure to meet this standard may constitute negligence.

MACE - Exam Prep Practice Test

MACE - Exam Prep Practice Test

MACE Legal and Ethical Issues 3