How should you handle a medication that cannot be found on the MAR?

Choosing to select "Error" on the medication administration record (MAR) when a medication cannot be found is important as it prompts immediate attention to the issue. By marking it as an error, you ensure that the situation is documented and reviewed, which helps in maintaining patient safety and accuracy in medication administration.

This approach is consistent with safety protocols in healthcare settings that aim to prevent potential medication errors. Not finding a medication on the MAR can indicate several issues including a possible oversight or a change in the patient’s medication orders. By reporting it, you initiate a process for further investigation, ensuring that the patient receives the correct treatment.

Selecting "Error" helps safeguard against administering the wrong medication or an unapproved dose, which emphasizes patient safety as a priority. It allows for the appropriate healthcare professionals to address the situation, confirm what the patient should be receiving, and take corrective action to resolve the discrepancy.