What is the purpose of a medication administration record (MAR)?

The purpose of a medication administration record (MAR) is pivotal in ensuring that all medications administered to a patient are accurately documented, which is vital for accountability and patient safety. The MAR serves as a legal record that helps healthcare professionals track what medications have been given, their dosages, and the timing of administration.

By documenting all medications administered, the MAR helps prevent errors such as double dosing or missed doses, and it allows for consistent communication among healthcare providers. This record also assists in monitoring patient responses to the medications and making informed decisions about ongoing care.

Other options, while related to medication management, do not capture the primary function of the MAR. For instance, recording the temperature of medications pertains to their storage rather than administration, listing all medications available focuses on inventory rather than individual patient care, and tracking patient medical history relates to health records but does not specifically address the management of medication administration.