North Carolina Medication Aide (Med Tech) Practice Exam

What critical information should be included with an "as needed" (PRN) medication?

1. Only the dosage information

2. The reason and frequency of administration

3. Remember to document the administration at the end of the shift

4. Only the resident's name

The correct answer is: The reason and frequency of administration

The correct choice emphasizes the necessity for both the reason for administering the medication and the frequency with which it should be given. When dealing with "as needed" (PRN) medications, it's crucial for caregiving staff to understand why the medication is prescribed to ensure it is administered appropriately. This information helps in monitoring the effectiveness of the treatment and ensures that the medication is given only when truly necessary, which is vital in avoiding overmedication or under-treatment. Additionally, the frequency of administration offers guidance on how often the medication can be safely taken without risking adverse effects, allowing the caregiver to manage the resident’s symptoms effectively. This comprehensive information ensures that caregivers can make informed decisions in the best interest of the patient’s health and well-being. Without including the reason and frequency, staff could misinterpret a resident's needs, potentially leading to inadequate care or medication-related complications. It's important to note that while documenting the administration and ensuring the resident's name are also important in medication management, they are secondary to understanding why and how often a PRN medication should be given.