How should a CMA handle a missed dose of medication?

When a Certified Medication Aide (CMA) encounters a missed dose of medication, the appropriate course of action is to notify the supervising nurse and document the occurrence. This is critical for ensuring patient safety and maintaining accurate medical records.

Notifying the supervising nurse allows for an assessment of the situation and understanding of whether the missed dose can be administered safely, or if adjustments to the medication plan are necessary. Documentation is essential as it provides a clear record of what occurred, which can be important for legal, ethical, and medical reasons. It ensures continuity of care and helps to prevent potential complications that may arise from a missed dose.

Other approaches, such as administering double the next dose or changing the medication schedule immediately, could lead to overdosing or inconsistent medication administration, which could be harmful to the patient. Ignoring the missed dose would disregard the responsibility of the CMA to provide safe and effective care to the patient. Following the correct protocol helps maintain the standards of practice and the safety of the patient.