North Carolina Medication Aide (Med Tech) Practice Exam

If a medication has a specific administration time, what must be included in its order?

1. Only the dosage information

2. A note about potential side effects

3. Specific administration times

4. General guidelines for PRN usage

The correct answer is: Specific administration times

When a medication has a specific administration time, it is essential for the order to include those specific administration times. This detail is crucial for ensuring that the medication is taken at the correct intervals to maintain effective levels in the bloodstream and achieve the desired therapeutic effect. Timing can influence the medication’s efficacy and safety, especially for drugs that require consistent dosing schedules or those that may interact with food or other medications at certain times of the day. Including specific administration times in the order helps medication aides like those in North Carolina to adhere to protocols, prevents potential errors, and ultimately supports the health and well-being of the patients by ensuring they receive their medications as intended by the prescribing healthcare provider.