AMAP Study Guide Part 2: Medication Administration Procedures

Key Regulations/Legislation


  • Federal and State Laws: All medications must be administered in accordance with prescribed orders, facility policy, and applicable laws.
  • Controlled Substances Act: Governs the administration and documentation of controlled substances, requiring special handling and accountability.

Key Procedures/Protocols

Procedure Description
Six Rights of Medication Administration Right resident, right drug, right dosage, right time, right route, right documentation.
Medication Storage All medications must be stored in original containers, locked, and accessible only to authorized personnel.
Documentation Document medication administration immediately after giving it, including any missed doses or errors.

Key Assessment Techniques


  • Vital Signs Measurement: Includes temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure, which must be accurately recorded and reported to the RN if abnormal.
  • Stethoscope Use: Proper technique for measuring heart rate and blood pressure, ensuring cleanliness and accuracy.


Key Drugs


  • Controlled Substances: Drugs with a high potential for abuse, requiring strict documentation and handling (e.g., narcotics).
  • Non-controlled Drugs: Prescription and over-the-counter medications that do not fall under controlled substance regulations.

Facts to Memorize


  • The Six Rights of Medication Administration: Right Resident, Right Drug, Right Dosage, Right Time, Right Route, Right Record.
  • Common medication abbreviations: ac (before meals), bid (twice a day), prn (as needed), npo (nothing by mouth).
  • Normal vital signs: Temperature: 96.6 to 98.6°F (oral), Pulse: 60 to 90 bpm, Respiration: 12 to 20 breaths/min, Blood Pressure: <120/80 mmHg.

Reference Information


  • Medication Administration Record (MAR) must include resident name, drug name, dosage, route, and time of administration.
  • Controlled substances must be stored in a locked cabinet with two different keys.
  • The RN must be notified of any medication errors or discrepancies in the MAR.

Problem-Solving Steps



Steps for Administering Medications:
  1. Review MAR: Check for the correct resident, medication, dosage, time, and route.
  2. Prepare Medication: Gather the medication and ensure it matches the MAR.
  3. Check for Allergies: Confirm the resident's allergies before administration.
  4. Administer Medication: Follow the prescribed route and dosage.
  5. Document Administration: Record the administration on the MAR immediately after giving the medication.
  6. Monitor for Effects: Observe the resident for any adverse reactions or side effects.

Cause and Effect

Cause Effect
Administration of medications by AMAPs Improved health outcomes for residents, but requires strict adherence to protocols.
Delegation of medication administration Allows non-licensed staff to assist, but increases the need for supervision by RNs.
Use of controlled substances Requires careful documentation and monitoring to prevent misuse and ensure safety.
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