Arkansas Long Term Care Administrator Practice Exam

Is it allowed to prepare multiple medications at once for administration?

1. Yes, if prepared in a secure manner

2. No, you must prepare them one at a time

3. Yes, if the medications are for the same patient

4. No, unless time is restricted

The correct answer is: No, you must prepare them one at a time

The appropriate practice for medication administration is to prepare them one at a time. This practice is established to ensure the accuracy and safety of medication delivery. By preparing medications individually, it minimizes the risk of errors, such as mixing them up between patients or dosages. When medications are prepared simultaneously, there is an increased potential for confusion or miscalculation, which could lead to serious consequences for patient safety. The focus on preparing each medication one at a time aligns with best practices in nursing and pharmacy care to provide thorough attention and detail for each individual medication meant for administration. This method enhances accountability, allowing healthcare providers to verify dosages, confirm patient identities, and adhere to prescribed treatment plans effectively. While there may be circumstances where efficiency is considered, such as in emergency situations, the fundamental guideline remains steadfast to prevent administering the wrong medication or incorrect dosages.