Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE) Practice Test

For centrally stored PRN medication, what must the label include?

1. Symptoms indicating the need for medication.

2. Exact dosage, minimum hours between doses, and maximum doses in 24 hours.

3. Only the medical condition treated.

4. Both A and B.

The correct answer is: Both A and B.

The correct answer encompasses the critical requirements for labeling centrally stored PRN (as-needed) medications in a Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE). When medications are stored centrally and are available for use as needed, having clear and comprehensive labeling is crucial to ensure safe and effective administration. Including symptoms that indicate the need for medication is vital, as it guides staff on when to administer the medication. This aspect ensures that the medication is given only when necessary and appropriate, reducing the risk of misuse or overmedication. Moreover, specifying the exact dosage, along with the minimum hours between doses and the maximum doses allowed within a 24-hour period, is essential for safety and compliance with prescribing regulations. This clear guidance helps prevent potential medication errors and informs staff about the safe parameters within which they can operate. By requiring both the symptoms for use and detailed dosing instructions, the label provides comprehensive information that enhances safe medication practices. This combination is crucial in a setting where the well-being of elderly residents is the primary concern, ensuring that medications are managed responsibly and effectively.