North Carolina Medication Aide (Med Tech) Practice Exam

What does the medication order "Ambien 5mg po as needed for sleep" indicate?

1. It is a complete order ready for administration

2. It is an infinite order for sleep aid

3. It is an incomplete order

4. It requires immediate administration

The correct answer is: It is an incomplete order

The medication order "Ambien 5mg po as needed for sleep" is considered incomplete because it does not provide specific parameters for when the medication should be administered. While it indicates the medication name, dosage, and route of administration (orally), it lacks critical information such as the frequency of use or any limitations on how often it can be taken. Orders typically should clearly define the conditions under which the medication is to be given, including any time constraints or maximum doses over a given period. In the absence of these details, the order leaves room for ambiguity regarding its administration, hence classifying it as incomplete.