California Nursing Home Administrator License Practice Exam

What is one responsibility Mary, an unlicensed staff member, has while assisting with medication?

1. Take medication orders from physicians

2. Dispense medications out of pharmacy hours

3. Record changes to medication directions on the MOR

4. Ask residents for their next scheduled medications

The correct answer is: Record changes to medication directions on the MOR

The responsibility of recording changes to medication directions on the Medication Administration Record (MAR) is crucial for maintaining accurate and up-to-date patient information. This task ensures that all staff involved in a resident's care are aware of any adjustments in medication dosages, types, or schedules, which is essential for patient safety and effective medication management. Accurate documentation helps prevent medication errors and ensures continuity of care, as well as adherence to regulatory standards. Unlicensed staff can play a supportive role in this process by accurately noting and updating changes as directed by licensed healthcare professionals. This aspect of their role may involve oversight and guidance from a licensed nurse or pharmacist to guarantee that any recorded changes are appropriate and safe. In contrast, taking medication orders from physicians, dispensing medications outside of pharmacy hours, and directly asking residents for their next scheduled medications may exceed the limitations of an unlicensed staff member’s scope of practice, as these tasks generally require a licensed professional's involvement to ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards in healthcare.