Medication Administration Procedures Flashcards

A medication order reads '500 mg PO BID'. How many times per day should this medication be given?

Answer: Twice

BID (bis in die) means twice daily.

Which action best demonstrates proper hand hygiene before medication administration?

Answer: Washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds

Washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is the standard for effective hand hygiene before medication administration.

What does the abbreviation 'NPO' mean in relation to medication administration?

Answer: Nothing by mouth; withhold oral medications unless ordered otherwise

NPO (nil per os) means nothing by mouth; oral medications are typically withheld unless specifically ordered by the physician.

When applying a nitroglycerin ointment, why should the medication technician wear gloves?

Answer: To prevent absorption of the drug through the technician's own skin

Nitroglycerin is absorbed through skin; gloves protect the technician from accidental absorption which can cause headaches or hypotension.

A resident has difficulty swallowing tablets. Before crushing any medication, the medication technician should:

Answer: Check with the nurse or pharmacist to confirm the medication is safe to crush

Not all medications can be safely crushed; the nurse or pharmacist must verify before altering the dosage form.

Which of the following is an example of a controlled substance that requires special documentation?

Answer: Hydrocodone

Hydrocodone is a Schedule II controlled substance requiring a separate controlled substance log and count verification.

After administering a medication, the technician notices the resident is having difficulty breathing. What should be done first?

Answer: Stay with the resident and call for the nurse immediately

Difficulty breathing after medication administration may indicate an adverse reaction; the nurse must be notified immediately while the technician stays with the resident.