What should not happen to the keys of the medication room?

The keys to the medication room should always be kept with the licensed nurse or Qualified Medication Assistant (QMA). This practice is crucial for maintaining the security and integrity of the medications stored within that area. Keeping the keys in the possession of trained personnel ensures that only those who have the appropriate training and authorization can access medications, which helps prevent unauthorized access and potential misuse.

Moreover, it aligns with best practices in medication management, where accountability and tracking are vital for patient safety. By keeping the keys secured with licensed personnel, it creates a controlled environment where medications can be handled responsibly, reducing the risk of errors or theft.

The other options represent actions that compromise medication safety and security, such as giving the keys to someone who is not properly licensed or trained, losing the keys, or storing them carelessly in a cart. Each of these alternatives could lead to serious implications for patient care and safety.