North Carolina Medication Aide (Med Tech) Practice Exam

Which situation would require additional orders from a physician?

1. When a resident expresses concerns about a medication

2. When a resident returns from the hospital with a continuation order

3. When a resident consistently refuses medications

4. When a new medication is added to the regimen

The correct answer is: When a resident returns from the hospital with a continuation order

In a situation where a resident returns from the hospital with a continuation order, additional orders from a physician may not be necessary. A continuation order is typically a directive from the hospital that specifies that a resident should continue their current medication regimen as it was established before their hospital stay. This continuity is crucial for maintaining stable health, and as long as there is a clear continuation order, the Med Tech can proceed with administering the medications as prescribed. On the other hand, when a resident consistently refuses medications, this indicates a possible issue that might require intervention, such as reassessing the medication's necessity or considering alternatives. Similarly, expressing concerns about a medication could lead to discussions with healthcare providers but does not inherently necessitate new orders. Lastly, when a new medication is added, it usually involves specific orders from the physician to ensure the resident is taking the correct dosages and managing potential interactions with existing medications. Thus, the rationale behind needing continued orders for a resident returning from the hospital aligns with ensuring seamless care and preventing any disruption in their treatment regimen.