What does "administration" of medication imply?

The term "administration" in the context of medication refers to the act of giving medication to a patient as prescribed. This means that the medication is provided to the patient in a manner that follows the specific instructions and guidelines outlined by a healthcare professional, ensuring that it is done safely and correctly.

This process encompasses not only providing the medication but also ensuring that the right patient receives the correct dosage at the appropriate time and via the appropriate route (such as orally, intravenously, etc.). This is essential for achieving the intended therapeutic effects and minimizing potential side effects or complications.

The other options describe related but distinct processes. Simply handing medication to the patient does not involve verifying that the administration is done according to the prescribed instructions, which can lead to medication errors. Prescribing medication is the responsibility of a licensed healthcare provider, which does not involve the action of giving the medication directly to the patient. Documentation is a crucial part of medication management, but it focuses on recording the administration rather than the process of giving the medication itself.