When should the medication label and the MAR be compared?

The correct answer is based on the critical importance of ensuring medication safety at multiple stages of the medication administration process. Comparing the medication label with the Medication Administration Record (MAR) is essential when the medication is removed from storage, during the pouring of the medication, and also when the medication is returned to the storage area. This three-step verification process helps prevent medication errors, including administering the wrong drug, incorrect dosage, or the right medication to the wrong resident.

When the medication is initially taken out of the storage area, confirming that it matches the MAR ensures that the correct medication is being accessed. During the pouring process, this verification serves as an additional safeguard against mistakes, reinforcing the necessity for accuracy just before administration. Finally, comparing the label with the MAR when returning any unused medication to the storage area confirms the correct handling and documentation of medications, which is vital for maintaining accurate medical records and ensuring resident safety.

In summary, this thorough approach to comparing the label and MAR at multiple key points in the medication handling process is essential for promoting medication safety in assisted living settings.