North Carolina Medication Aide (Med Tech) Practice Exam

What should you do if a physician writes an order for Amoxicillin and the chart indicates the resident is allergic to it?

1. Administer the medication as prescribed

2. Remind the physician of the allergy warning

3. Document the order in the MAR

4. Consult with another healthcare professional

The correct answer is: Remind the physician of the allergy warning

Reminding the physician of the allergy warning is the appropriate action in this situation because patient safety is the highest priority in medication administration. If a resident is known to be allergic to Amoxicillin, administering it could lead to severe allergic reactions, which can be life-threatening. When a medication is prescribed that conflicts with a known allergy in the patient's chart, it is essential to communicate this information to the prescribing physician. This action not only protects the patient but also ensures that the healthcare team is aware of any discrepancies in the medical records. Open communication among healthcare professionals is vital in preventing medication errors and ensuring safe care for residents. In contrast, administering the medication as prescribed disregards the known allergy, which could have serious consequences. Documenting the order in the Medication Administration Record (MAR) without addressing the allergy could also lead to a dangerous situation, as it implies that the medication is safe to give. Consulting with another healthcare professional may be helpful but does not directly address the immediate need to ensure the physician is aware of the allergy, which is pertinent before any further action is taken.