What must a QMA do if they are unsure about a medication order?

When a Qualified Medication Aide (QMA) is unsure about a medication order, the appropriate action is to consult with the supervising nurse for clarification. This is crucial because medication administration requires accuracy and a clear understanding of the medication's purpose, dosage, and any potential side effects or interactions.

Consulting with the supervising nurse ensures that the QMA can receive guidance based on the specific protocols of the facility and the best practices in patient safety. It helps prevent any potential errors that could arise from misunderstanding the order or misinterpretation of the medication's intended use.

Additionally, while administering the medication as ordered or ignoring the order entirely might seem like options, they can lead to serious consequences for patient safety and violate professional guidelines. Asking the resident about their recognition of the order may not provide reliable information, as residents might not always have the knowledge or understanding to identify medical orders or the implications of their medications. Thus, seeking clarification from a qualified professional is the most responsible and safe approach.