Ohio Nursing Home Administrator Practice Exam

How often should the drug regimen of each resident be reviewed and documented, and by who?

1. Once per week by the nursing assistant

2. Once per month by the physician

3. Once per month by pharmacist

4. Twice a year by the nursing director

The correct answer is: Once per month by pharmacist

The correct answer highlights that the drug regimen of each resident should be reviewed and documented once per month by a pharmacist. This practice is essential for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of medications administered to residents in a nursing home setting. Pharmacists are trained professionals equipped to evaluate the appropriateness of medication, identify potential drug interactions, assess dosage adequacy, and ensure compliance with treatment protocols. Their expertise is critical in maintaining the health and well-being of residents, as they play an essential role in medication management and safety. Other options suggest different review frequencies or responsibilities that do not align with the best practices for medication oversight. For instance, weekly reviews by nursing assistants lack the required professional training in pharmacology and could lead to oversight of critical medication-related issues. A monthly review by a physician might also be insufficient from a comprehensive documentation and oversight perspective, as it is primarily the pharmacist's role to conduct detailed medication reviews. Lastly, biannual reviews by the nursing director might not provide adequate ongoing monitoring of medication regimens, placing residents at risk for medication errors or adverse effects. Thus, monthly assessments by a pharmacist strike the right balance of frequency and expertise needed in this context.