North Carolina Medication Aide (Med Tech) Practice Exam

What should you do if there is uncertainty about the medication order?

1. Administer the medication anyway to avoid delays

2. Consult with a nurse, pharmacist, or supervisor

3. Document your uncertainty and move on

4. Ask the resident for clarification

The correct answer is: Consult with a nurse, pharmacist, or supervisor

Consulting with a nurse, pharmacist, or supervisor when there is uncertainty about a medication order is essential for ensuring patient safety and providing appropriate care. This approach allows for clarification and confirmation regarding the medication, dosage, route, and timing. Medication management requires adherence to established protocols, and any doubts or ambiguities must be addressed by qualified personnel who can provide the necessary information and guidance. Acting autonomously by administering the medication without confirmation could potentially lead to harmful consequences if the order is incorrect or misunderstood. Documenting uncertainty without taking further action would also neglect the responsibility of the medication aide to ensure that medications are administered safely and correctly. Similarly, seeking clarification from the resident might not be sufficient, as residents may not have the necessary medical knowledge to confirm medication orders accurately. Therefore, consulting with someone who has the expertise to verify the order is the best course of action.