Is it permissible to leave medications unattended at the bedside when a resident is present?

Leaving medications unattended at the bedside, even when a resident is present, is not permissible due to several critical safety and legal considerations. The proper practice is to ensure that medications are administered directly to the individual who is prescribed them. Unattended medications can pose significant risks, including accidental ingestion by the resident or other individuals, potential misuse, or medication errors.

Furthermore, regulations around medication administration often emphasize the importance of safeguarding medications, ensuring they are administered in a controlled manner to prevent any unauthorized access. This standard applies uniformly, regardless of whether the medications are scheduled doses or PRN (as needed) medications. Maintaining proper accountability and preventing medication errors are essential aspects of a medication technician's responsibilities, reinforcing the reason why medications should not be left unattended at any time.