What is a Medication Administration Record (MAR)?

A Medication Administration Record (MAR) serves as a comprehensive list of all medications that have been prescribed or ordered for a resident. It is an essential tool in medication management, allowing healthcare providers to accurately track which medications a patient has received, their dosages, administration times, and any other relevant details. The MAR helps ensure that medications are administered safely and on schedule and serves as a communication tool among healthcare staff regarding the resident's pharmacological needs.

The other options do not accurately describe the purpose of a MAR. For instance, tracking medical tests would involve a different type of documentation that focuses on laboratory results and diagnostic imaging. A prescription for controlled substances pertains to a specific legal document issued by a licensed medical provider, which is distinct from the broader scope of medication administration records. Lastly, a record of insurance claims relates to billing and financial transactions associated with healthcare services, which is entirely separate from the clinical management of medication. Each of these options highlights different aspects of healthcare documentation but does not fulfill the role that a MAR plays in medication administration.