Qualified Medication Aides (QMA) Practice Exam

What should a QMA do if a patient cannot swallow their medication?

1. Crush the medication without consulting a nurse

2. Consult with a nurse for alternatives

3. Mix the medication with food

4. Skip the dose

The correct answer is: Consult with a nurse for alternatives

When a patient cannot swallow their medication, the appropriate action for a Qualified Medication Aide (QMA) is to consult with a nurse for alternatives. This approach ensures patient safety and proper medication administration. Each medication may have specific characteristics, such as being time-released or coated, which can be compromised if altered improperly. By consulting with a nurse, the QMA can determine the safest and most effective way to deliver the medication, such as suggesting a different form (liquid versus tablet) or exploring alternative medications that might be easier for the patient to take. The other options involve taking action that may not align with best practices or patient safety regulations. Crushing medication without professional guidance could lead to incorrect dosing or unwanted side effects. Mixing medications with food can also change the medication's efficacy and is not always advisable without verification. Skipping a dose may not be appropriate, as the medication may be necessary for the patient’s health, and a nurse can advise on the best course of action.