What is the main concern with leaving medications at the bedside?

Leaving medications at the bedside primarily raises the concern that the resident may be at risk of someone else taking them. This situation poses significant safety issues, as it can lead to unauthorized individuals accessing the medications, which may result in misuse or harm. Medications should always be securely managed and administered by qualified personnel to ensure they are taken correctly and only by the intended resident.

While there might be other considerations, such as the possibility of the resident taking the medication later or forgetting to take it, these are secondary considerations compared to the critical safety risks associated with unauthorized access. Ensuring that medications are handled in a safe and secure manner is an essential aspect of medication administration protocols. This practice helps safeguard the well-being of all residents and protects the integrity of their treatment plans.