Podcast
Questions and Answers
A client consistently forgets to take their afternoon medication. What is the MOST effective initial strategy a PSW should implement to support adherence?
A client consistently forgets to take their afternoon medication. What is the MOST effective initial strategy a PSW should implement to support adherence?
- Develop a visual reminder system, such as a chart or pillbox, and encourage the client to use it. (correct)
- Reprimand the client for forgetting to take their medication, emphasizing the importance of adherence.
- Contact the client's doctor to request a change in prescription to a once-daily dosage.
- Administer the medication when the PSW is present during the afternoon shift, regardless of the order.
A PSW notices that a client is experiencing increased confusion and drowsiness, and the client's medication list includes a sedative. What would be the MOST appropriate action for the PSW to take?
A PSW notices that a client is experiencing increased confusion and drowsiness, and the client's medication list includes a sedative. What would be the MOST appropriate action for the PSW to take?
- Withhold the sedative until the client is more alert.
- Adjust the dosage of the sedative to a lower amount to reduce the side effects.
- Administer a stimulant, such as coffee, to counteract the sedative's effects.
- Document the observations and immediately report the changes to the appropriate supervisor or healthcare professional. (correct)
When assisting a client with medication, a PSW discovers that the medication label does not match the client's MAR (Medication Administration Record). What is the CORRECT procedure to follow?
When assisting a client with medication, a PSW discovers that the medication label does not match the client's MAR (Medication Administration Record). What is the CORRECT procedure to follow?
- Administer the medication according to the MAR, assuming it is the most up-to-date information.
- Administer the medication, as long as it looks familiar to previous doses.
- Contact the pharmacy to verify the prescription details.
- Hold the medication, contact the supervisor or appropriate healthcare professional, and document the discrepancy. (correct)
A client who takes medication for hypertension reports feeling dizzy upon standing. Which action should the PSW take FIRST?
A client who takes medication for hypertension reports feeling dizzy upon standing. Which action should the PSW take FIRST?
What is the PRIMARY reason for PSWs to document medication administration immediately after it occurs?
What is the PRIMARY reason for PSWs to document medication administration immediately after it occurs?
A client refuses to take their prescribed medication, stating they feel it is no longer needed. What is the PSW's MOST appropriate response?
A client refuses to take their prescribed medication, stating they feel it is no longer needed. What is the PSW's MOST appropriate response?
While preparing a client's medication, a PSW accidentally drops a pill on the floor. What is the CORRECT action to take?
While preparing a client's medication, a PSW accidentally drops a pill on the floor. What is the CORRECT action to take?
A client is prescribed a new medication. What is the PSW's role in monitoring the client for potential adverse effects?
A client is prescribed a new medication. What is the PSW's role in monitoring the client for potential adverse effects?
A client has difficulty swallowing pills. What is the MOST appropriate action a PSW should take?
A client has difficulty swallowing pills. What is the MOST appropriate action a PSW should take?
What is the PRIMARY reason for ensuring proper disposal of medications?
What is the PRIMARY reason for ensuring proper disposal of medications?
A PSW is asked by a client's family member about the client's medication and condition. What is the MOST appropriate response?
A PSW is asked by a client's family member about the client's medication and condition. What is the MOST appropriate response?
A client states, "This pill looks different than usual." What is the PSW's BEST course of action?
A client states, "This pill looks different than usual." What is the PSW's BEST course of action?
A client becomes agitated and refuses medication due to increased anxiety. What is the MOST appropriate immediate action for the PSW?
A client becomes agitated and refuses medication due to increased anxiety. What is the MOST appropriate immediate action for the PSW?
What is the PRIMARY purpose of using a Medication Administration Record (MAR)?
What is the PRIMARY purpose of using a Medication Administration Record (MAR)?
A PSW is preparing to administer eye drops to a client. What is an ESSENTIAL step to ensure proper medication administration?
A PSW is preparing to administer eye drops to a client. What is an ESSENTIAL step to ensure proper medication administration?
A client's prescription label is faded and difficult to read. What is the PSW's BEST action?
A client's prescription label is faded and difficult to read. What is the PSW's BEST action?
After administering medication, a PSW realizes they gave the client the wrong dose. What should the PSW do FIRST?
After administering medication, a PSW realizes they gave the client the wrong dose. What should the PSW do FIRST?
A client who is prescribed an anticoagulant medication has a minor cut. What is an IMPORTANT consideration for the PSW?
A client who is prescribed an anticoagulant medication has a minor cut. What is an IMPORTANT consideration for the PSW?
What is the BEST way for a PSW to maintain competency in medication administration?
What is the BEST way for a PSW to maintain competency in medication administration?
Flashcards
Rights of Medication Administration
Rights of Medication Administration
Medication administration involves several 'rights' to ensure patient safety and accuracy.
Right Medication
Right Medication
Ensuring the right medication is given by verifying the medication order and label.
Right Patient
Right Patient
Confirming the medication is given to the correct patient using two patient identifiers.
Right Dose
Right Dose
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Right Route
Right Route
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Right Time
Right Time
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Right Documentation
Right Documentation
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Right Education
Right Education
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Right to Refuse
Right to Refuse
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Right Evaluation
Right Evaluation
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Side Effect
Side Effect
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Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis
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Adverse Drug Reaction
Adverse Drug Reaction
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Drug Interaction
Drug Interaction
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Reporting Medication Errors
Reporting Medication Errors
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Study Notes
- Medication administration encompasses various routes including oral, topical, inhalation, and injections.
- Correctly matching the medication, dose, route, and time are crucial in medication administration.
- Proper documentation after medication administration is essential.
- It's important to be aware of common medications and their side effects.
- PSWs must adhere to legal and ethical guidelines regarding medication management.
- Always follow the care plan and employer policies.
- Clear and accurate documentation is essential.
- Report any observed side effects or adverse reactions.
- Effective communication among healthcare team members is crucial.
- Respect client's rights and preferences in medication administration.
- Common routes of medication administration include oral, topical, inhalation, and injections.
- Oral medications are swallowed and absorbed through the digestive system.
- Topical medications are applied to the skin or mucous membranes.
- Inhalation involves breathing in medication through the nose or mouth.
- Injections deliver medication directly into the body via a needle.
- The "rights" of medication administration include: right medication, right dose, right route, right time, right client, right documentation
- Matching the medication order with the medication label is critical.
- Checking the medication expiry date is a must before administration.
- Utilizing appropriate measuring devices ensures accurate dosing.
- Administering medication at the prescribed time is important for efficacy.
- Verifying client identity before administering medication prevents errors.
- Documenting the medication, dose, route, and time immediately after administration is vital.
- Observing the client for any adverse reactions is part of the documentation process.
- Reporting any unexpected outcomes or errors promptly is necessary.
- Medications have various names: chemical, generic, and trade/brand.
- Knowing both generic and trade names is important.
- Certain medications require specific storage conditions (e.g., refrigeration).
- Being aware of potential side effects and adverse reactions is important.
- Understanding common drug interactions is vital for client safety.
- Legal frameworks govern medication management practices.
- PSWs have a legal responsibility to adhere to their scope of practice.
- Ethical principles guide decision-making in medication administration.
- Client autonomy and informed consent are central ethical considerations.
- Maintaining confidentiality of client information is an ethical requirement.
- Safe medication practices include preventing medication errors.
- Proper storage and disposal of medications are essential for safety.
- Observing and reporting any changes in the client's condition.
- Clarifying any unclear medication orders with the appropriate healthcare professional.
- The PSW plays a role in observing the client's response to medication.
- Document any observed side effects or adverse reactions.
- Report any concerns to the supervising healthcare professional.
- Accurate and timely communication is vital for client safety.
- Communicate effectively with healthcare team members.
- Report any medication errors or near misses immediately.
- Act as a client advocate by communicating their concerns and preferences.
- Medication management revolves around client rights, including the right to refuse medication.
- Respecting client's autonomy in decision-making is crucial.
- Informed consent should be obtained before medication administration.
- Providing education and information to the client empowers them.
- Medication errors can have serious consequences.
- Prevent errors by following the "rights" of medication administration.
- Double-checking medication orders and labels reduces errors.
- Reporting errors immediately helps minimize harm.
- Continuous learning and professional development are essential.
- Staying updated on medication-related information enhances skills.
- Participating in training programs improves competence.
- Seeking guidance from experienced professionals promotes growth.
- Safe medication handling reduces the risk of contamination.
- Dispose of medications properly to prevent accidental ingestion.
- Store medications securely to prevent diversion or misuse.
- Report unsafe practices to protect clients and colleagues.
- Medication administration requires a comprehensive understanding of medications, routes, and client factors.
- Following established protocols and guidelines is essential for safety.
- PSWs play a crucial role in medication management within their scope of practice.
- Seek clarification and support when needed.
- Common medications include analgesics, antibiotics, cardiovascular drugs, and psychotropics.
- Analgesics relieve pain, while antibiotics fight bacterial infections.
- Cardiovascular drugs treat heart conditions, and psychotropics affect mental state.
- Each medication class has specific side effects and considerations.
- PSWs must be knowledgeable about the medications they assist with.
- Medication interactions can occur when two or more drugs affect each other.
- Drug interactions can alter the effects of medications, leading to harm.
- Be aware of common drug interactions and report potential concerns.
- Review the client's medication list for potential interactions.
- The care plan guides medication administration practices.
- The care plan provides specific instructions for each client.
- Adhering to the care plan ensures consistency and safety.
- Documenting any deviations from the care plan is essential.
- Employer policies outline procedures for medication management.
- Familiarize yourself with your employer's policies and guidelines.
- Follow the policies regarding medication storage, administration, and documentation.
- Seek clarification on any unclear policies or procedures.
- The role of the PSW is to assist with medication administration.
- The scope of practice varies based on training and regulations.
- PSWs must never administer medications outside their scope of practice.
- Seek guidance from a supervisor or healthcare professional when unsure.
- Accurate documentation is essential for medication management.
- Record the medication, dose, route, time, and client response.
- Document any adverse reactions or side effects.
- Sign and date all documentation entries.
- Communication is vital for medication management.
- Communicate effectively with clients, families, and healthcare professionals.
- Report any concerns or changes in the client's condition promptly.
- Participate in team meetings and discussions.
- Client rights are fundamental to medication management.
- Respect the client's right to refuse medication.
- Provide information about medications and their effects.
- Obtain informed consent before medication administration.
- Errors regarding medication happen more often than healthcare providers would like
- Always follow the 6 rights of medication
- If an error occurs, always report it immediately.
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