Patient Care & Safety Flashcards

When should the MAR be initialed after giving a medication?

Answer: Immediately after the resident takes it

Document right after administration to avoid errors and duplicates.

A resident has difficulty swallowing and coughs when taking pills. What is the proper action?

Answer: Stop and report to the nurse/prescriber for an assessment or alternative form

Swallowing difficulty needs clinical evaluation before changing how medication is given.

Which vital sign change should be reported when a resident is on a heart medication?

Answer: A significantly slow or irregular pulse as defined in the order or policy

Abnormal pulse is a key safety check for cardiac drugs and must be reported.

Which of these is an appropriate use of a PRN medication?

Answer: Giving it only when the resident has the indicated symptom, following the order's limits

PRN means as needed, according to indication, dose and frequency in the order.

What is the correct way to handle a medication that was dropped on the floor?

Answer: Do not give it; dispose of it per policy and document/obtain a replacement

Contaminated medication must not be given and should be disposed of per policy.

A resident says a new pill 'looks different' from their usual one. What should you do?

Answer: Stop, verify the medication against the MAR and label, and clarify with the pharmacy/prescriber

A resident's concern may signal an error; always verify before giving.

Which action helps prevent errors when preparing medications?

Answer: Focusing on one resident at a time and reading the label three times

One resident at a time and label checks reduce mistakes.