Massachusetts MAP Certification Practice Test

What should you always check before administering medication?

1. The resident's vital signs

2. The medication label for accuracy

3. The resident's mood

4. The time of day

The correct answer is: The medication label for accuracy

Before administering medication, it is essential to check the medication label for accuracy. This step is crucial to ensure that the correct medication is being given to the right patient at the appropriate dose. Verifying the medication label helps to prevent medication errors that could have serious consequences for the resident's health. This includes checking not only the name of the medication but also the dosage, route of administration, expiration date, and any special instructions. While checking the resident's vital signs, mood, or the time of day can provide valuable context and support safe care practices, these factors are secondary to the primary need for verifying that the medication itself is correct. Ensuring accuracy in medication administration is a fundamental part of safe healthcare practices.