Question

Which statement accurately describes the unit-dose system? Select all that apply. One, some, or all responses may be correct.

1 It uses carts for distribution.
2 It has labeled drawers.
3 It has controlled substances kept in foil.
4 It does not contain prn and stock medication.
5 It includes prescribed doses of medication for a full course.

Answer 1

The unit-dose system uses carts for distribution, labeled drawers, may package controlled substances in foil, does not usually include PRN and stock medications, and includes medication for specific dosage times rather than a full course.

Step-by-step explanation:

The unit-dose system of medication distribution in hospitals and health care facilities can be described by the following characteristics:

• It may use carts for distribution to organize and transport medications to patients.
• It often features labeled drawers or containers for individual patient doses to ensure proper dispensing.
• Controlled substances may be kept in foil or other tamper-evident packaging as part of dispensing safety protocols.
• It typically does not contain PRN (as needed) and stock medications, which are managed separately.
• The system includes prescribed doses of medication intended for administration at specific times, not for a full course.

In summary, the unit-dose system is designed to reduce medication errors and improve patient safety by ensuring that medications are dispensed in a controlled, organized manner for individual doses.