California Nursing Home Administrator License Practice Exam

What is the appropriate action when a medication falls to the floor during assistance?

1. The medication can be cleaned and reused

2. The medication should be considered contaminated and disposed of

3. Pick it up quickly and give it back to the resident

4. Wait until the resident decides whether to take it

The correct answer is: The medication should be considered contaminated and disposed of

When a medication falls to the floor during assistance, the appropriate action is to consider it contaminated and dispose of it. This is crucial for ensuring patient safety and maintaining proper hygiene standards. Medications that have come into contact with unclean surfaces can acquire bacteria or other pathogens, which could lead to infections or adverse effects if ingested. By disposing of the medication, a facility upholds the integrity of its medication management system and protects the health of the resident. This action reflects adherence to safety protocols and best practices within nursing care environments. Maintaining strict standards when it comes to the administration of medications is vital for preventing errors and safeguarding the well-being of patients. Therefore, the decision to discard the medication aligns with regulatory guidelines that emphasize the necessity of protecting residents from potential harm.