North Carolina Medication Aide (Med Tech) Practice Exam

If a resident refuses to take their medications, what should you do after removing them from the packaging?

1. Administer the medications later

2. Dispose of the medications according to facility policy

3. Re-package them for later use

4. Give them to another resident who needs them

The correct answer is: Dispose of the medications according to facility policy

When a resident refuses to take their medications, the appropriate action is to dispose of the medications according to facility policy. This ensures that the medications are handled safely and in compliance with legal and ethical standards. If the medications are removed from their packaging but not taken, they may become contaminated or degrade, making them unsafe for reuse. Following facility policy for disposal ensures that medications are discarded in a manner that prevents accidental ingestion or environmental contamination. This approach also respects the rights of the resident. A refusal should always be documented according to the facility protocols, and staff should communicate with healthcare professionals about the refusal and any necessary follow-up actions. This fosters a safe and respectful environment where residents' choices are acknowledged and handled responsibly.