Who is ultimately responsible for the accuracy of the medication that is administered?

The caregiver administering the medication is ultimately responsible for its accuracy. This is because the caregiver is the individual who has direct contact with the resident and is tasked with ensuring that the right medication is given in the correct dosage, at the appropriate time, and via the correct route. This responsibility involves verifying the medication label against the medication administration record (MAR) and being aware of each resident's unique medication regimen, including any potential allergies or interactions.

While the pharmacy and the nurse play crucial roles in the overall medication management process—such as preparing prescriptions and advising on appropriate medications—the caregiver is the last line of defense before the resident receives the medication. Consequently, they must have a thorough understanding of the medications being administered and any protocols in place to ensure that errors are avoided.

The resident receiving the medication is primarily the recipient of care and may not have the training or knowledge necessary to confirm the medication's accuracy. Therefore, the accountability lies with the caregiver who actively administers the medication.