Kentucky Medication Aide (KMA) State Practice Exam

What is a serious concern when managing narcotics in healthcare settings?

1. Overdosing and theft

2. Allergic reactions

3. High patient turnover

4. Antibiotic resistance

The correct answer is: Overdosing and theft

The management of narcotics in healthcare settings primarily raises serious concerns related to overdosing and theft. Overdosing can occur due to the potent nature of narcotic medications, leading to respiratory depression, unconsciousness, or even death if not administered correctly. This necessitates strict protocols to ensure the safe administration and monitoring of these substances. Additionally, the potential for theft is a major concern because narcotics are highly sought after for misuse. This can involve healthcare workers diverting medications for personal use or selling them illegally. Robust inventory management systems and double-check procedures are often implemented to mitigate these risks. Therefore, addressing both the potential for overdosing and the risk of theft is crucial in maintaining patient safety and preventing abuse in healthcare environments. While allergic reactions, high patient turnover, and antibiotic resistance are important issues in healthcare, they are not specifically linked to the particular challenges faced in the management of narcotics.