ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) Version 7ReadingHard
A patient is given a prescription for a new medication. The pharmacist explains, 'Take one tablet by mouth twice daily.' What critical medication instruction is missing from this statement?
- AThe potential side effects of the medication.
- BThe drug-food interactions to avoid.
- CThe duration for which the medication should be taken.
- DThe cost of the medication and insurance coverage.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. The duration for which the medication should be taken.
While side effects and interactions are important, a crucial piece of information for proper medication adherence and completion of therapy is the duration. Without knowing how long to take it, a patient might stop too soon or take it indefinitely.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Side effects are important but the duration is more critical for the basic administration instructions.
- B. Drug-food interactions are important, but the duration is a more fundamental missing piece for basic administration guidance.
- D. Cost is a practical consideration, but not a direct instruction for how to take the medication itself.
Critical Medication Instructions
Essential information a patient needs to safely and effectively take a prescribed medication.
- Drug name and purpose.
- Dosage (amount per dose).
- Route (how to take it).
- Frequency (how often).
- Duration (how long to take it).
- Special instructions (e.g., with food, avoid certain activities).
Memory trick: MEDS need the 5 W's: What, When, How, Why, and HOW LONG.