Question

What must the athletic trainer check before administering an OTC medication?

Answer 1

An athletic trainer must check allergies, medical conditions, dosage, and interactions before administering an OTC medication.

Step-by-step explanation:

Before administering an over-the-counter (OTC) medication, an athletic trainer must check a few things:

1. Allergies: Check if the athlete has any known allergies to the medication or its ingredients. This is important to prevent any adverse reactions or complications.
2. Medical Conditions: Assess if the athlete has any pre-existing medical conditions that may interact with the medication. Some OTC drugs can have contraindications for certain conditions.
3. Dosage: Verify the recommended dosage for the athlete's age, weight, and condition. Following the correct dosage is crucial for effectiveness and safety.
4. Interactions: Consider any potential drug interactions with other medications the athlete may be taking. Some OTC drugs can interact poorly with prescription medications.

By confirming these factors, the athletic trainer ensures the safe and appropriate administration of OTC medication to the athlete.