Which of the following statements about the safety of medications is true?

The statement that medication administration should always follow established protocols is indeed true because adhering to established protocols ensures that medications are administered safely and effectively. These protocols are designed to minimize the risk of errors, ensure proper dosages, and take into account critical factors such as patient allergies, interactions with other medications, and the specific needs of the patient. Following these standardized guidelines helps healthcare providers maintain a high level of care and enhances patient safety.

In the context of medication safety, it’s important to recognize that the other statements do not align with best practices in medication administration. While patient preferences might play a role in some healthcare decisions, they cannot supersede established safety protocols. Not all medications are safe for every patient due to individual differences in health conditions, allergies, and other factors, making blanket statements about medication safety misleading. Additionally, although over-the-counter (OTC) medications are accessible, they still require documentation for tracking and accountability in a healthcare setting to ensure patient safety and proper usage.