The Medication Aide is responsible for administering __________.

The correct answer highlights the importance of proper oversight and collaboration within the healthcare team. Medication Aides are allowed to administer medications under the direct supervision of a licensed nurse, which ensures that there is a qualified professional available to provide guidance, support, and authorization. This supervisory relationship is critical because it helps protect patient safety, as the Nurse can address any potential issues or questions that may arise during the medication administration process.

By requiring the presence of a nurse, the system promotes a safety net that ensures medications are administered correctly according to established protocols. Furthermore, the nurse can provide immediate feedback, evaluate the Medication Aide’s performance, and facilitate communication regarding the patient’s condition.

In contrast, administering only medications learned in school limits the scope of practice and does not reflect the collaborative nature of healthcare. Administering medications by all routes is more expansive than what is typically permitted for Medication Aides, who usually have restrictions on the routes they can use. Lastly, administering expired medications is not permissible due to the associated risks and lack of efficacy, emphasizing the importance of properly managing medication storage and disposal.