Massachusetts MAP Certification Practice Test

What is referred to as an error in the administration of medication?

1. Medication discrepancy

2. Medication occurrence

3. Medication incident

4. Medication alert

The correct answer is: Medication occurrence

An error in the administration of medication is often referred to as a medication occurrence. This term encompasses any mistake made during the process of administering medications, which can include errors such as the incorrect dosage given, the wrong medication administered, or any deviations from prescribed protocols that could potentially harm the patient. Understanding this terminology is crucial for healthcare professionals, as it aligns with the need for reporting and addressing such errors to improve patient safety and care quality. While terms like medication discrepancy, medication incident, and medication alert may seem relevant, "medication occurrence" specifically highlights the actual error that took place in the medication administration process. This clarity helps in tracking and managing medication-related errors more effectively.