Massachusetts MAP Certification Practice Test

If the HCP orders 50mg of medication and the pharmacy delivers 100mg tablets, what should you do?

1. Return the medication

2. Administer half a tablet

3. Keep the medication and document the incident

4. Notify the resident

The correct answer is: Return the medication

Returning the medication is the appropriate course of action because it ensures safety and compliance with medication administration protocols. In healthcare settings, it is crucial to administer the exact prescribed dosage to avoid the risk of incorrect dosing, which could lead to adverse reactions or insufficient therapeutic effects. When the healthcare provider (HCP) orders 50 mg of medication but the pharmacy delivers 100 mg tablets, there is a discrepancy between the ordered dose and the available form of medication. By choosing to return the medication, you prevent the potential issue of administering a dosage that exceeds what was prescribed. This action also prompts a review of the situation, allowing for the appropriate medication to be obtained. Administering half a tablet is not advisable without explicit instructions from the HCP, as it might lead to confusion or misadministration. Keeping the medication and documenting the incident does not resolve the issue of dosage discrepancy. Notifying the resident does not address the immediate concern of administering an incorrect dose. Therefore, returning the medication aligns with best practices for patient safety and medication management.