What should a QMA be aware of about a resident’s medications?

A Qualified Medication Assistant (QMA) should have a comprehensive understanding of a resident's medications, meaning they must be aware of the purpose, effects, and potential side effects. This knowledge is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of residents, as it allows the QMA to monitor for expected outcomes as well as any adverse reactions. Understanding how a medication works helps the QMA educate residents and their families about treatment plans, contributing to better compliance and communication.

Being informed about the effects allows the QMA to identify whether the medication is achieving its desired impact on the resident's health. Awareness of potential side effects is also vital in case the resident experiences any reactions that may require immediate attention or adjustment of medication. This comprehensive knowledge goes beyond merely recognizing the medication’s brand names or focusing solely on cost or current trends, which may not directly impact the individual's care.

Overall, the emphasis should be placed on understanding how medications interact with residents' health and well-being, making option B the most appropriate choice.