What must staff document on the MAR when administering medications?

When administering medications, it is essential for staff to document several key details on the Medication Administration Record (MAR) to maintain accurate medical records and ensure proper medication management. Documenting when a medication is administered, omitted, or refused provides a complete account of the resident's medication regimen.

Recording the time and details of administration ensures that all healthcare providers have a clear understanding of what medications have been given and when, which is crucial for monitoring the resident's response to therapy and managing potential interactions. Additionally, documenting omitted or refused medications helps in identifying patterns that might indicate issues with compliance or side effects, which can be critically important for the resident’s ongoing care.

This thorough documentation not only supports effective communication among healthcare providers but also serves as a legal record of medication administration practices, safeguarding both the resident’s health and the staff’s accountability.