Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE) Practice Test

What should be included when documenting a resident's PRN medication?

1. Current weight and height of the resident.

2. Symptoms, dosage, and timing of administration.

3. All medications the resident is taking.

4. Notes from previous caregivers.

The correct answer is: Symptoms, dosage, and timing of administration.

When documenting a resident's PRN (as needed) medication, it is essential to include information about the specific symptoms that prompted the medication, the exact dosage given, and the timing of the administration. This information provides a clear and accurate record of how and why the medication was used, which is crucial for ongoing care and ensures that the treatment aligns with the resident's needs. Including symptoms helps to justify the use of the medication, allowing caregivers to assess its effectiveness and make informed decisions about future doses. Documenting the dosage ensures that medication is administered consistently and safely, while timing details can help prevent overlaps with other medications or recognize patterns in the resident's health that may require further attention. In contrast, while factors such as a resident's weight, all current medications, and notes from previous caregivers may be important for broader care considerations, they are not as relevant to the specific documentation of PRN medication usage. The focus on symptoms, dosage, and timing is key to effective medication management in the context of a resident's immediate health needs.