North Carolina Medication Aide (Med Tech) Practice Exam

When a patient reports a side effect of a medication, the appropriate action is to document the complaint and notify the healthcare provider. This action is essential for several reasons. First, it ensures that the healthcare provider is made aware of the patient's experience, which can be crucial for assessing the patient’s wellbeing and deciding whether a change in medication or dosage is necessary.

Documentation plays a key role in maintaining accurate medical records, allowing healthcare providers to track side effects and make informed decisions based on a patient's history and reactions to medications. By notifying the healthcare provider, the medication aide ensures that the necessary follow-up can occur, which may include adjustments to the treatment plan or further evaluation of the patient’s condition.

Ignoring the complaint or encouraging silence about side effects can lead to worsening health issues and undermine the trust between the patient and the healthcare team. Stopping the medication without consulting the healthcare provider can pose risk to the patient's health and may lead to unnecessary complications. Thus, proper communication and documentation are critical components of safe medication administration and patient care.