What is the purpose of the Medication Administration record (MAR)?

The Medication Administration Record (MAR) is an essential tool in medication management within healthcare settings. Its primary purpose is to document every administration of medication to residents. This record provides a detailed account of which medications were given, the dosage, the time of administration, and the person who administered the medication. This documentation is crucial for ensuring patient safety, maintaining accurate medication administration histories, and facilitating communication among healthcare providers. The MAR also helps in monitoring for potential side effects or interactions, thus playing a significant role in the overall care of residents.

The other options do not capture the primary purpose of the MAR. While a summary of residents' medical histories is important for health care, it is documented elsewhere and not the focus of the MAR. The list of medications available in the facility pertains more to inventory management rather than administration details. Tracking expiration dates is a task related to medication supplies but not the function of the MAR itself, which is specifically concerned with documenting the administration process.