What records does MAR primarily document?

The Medication Administration Record (MAR) is a crucial tool used in healthcare settings to document the administration of medications to patients. This record specifically outlines details such as the type of medication given, the dosage, the time of administration, and sometimes the route of administration.

By focusing on medication administration, the MAR helps ensure accuracy and accountability in medication management. It serves as a vital reference for healthcare providers to verify that a patient has received their prescribed medications and aids in preventing medication errors. This documentation is essential not only for the current treatment plan but also for tracking the patient’s responses to medications over time.

While treatment effects, daily activities, and patient weight changes are important aspects of patient care, they are not primarily documented in the MAR. Instead, those details would typically be recorded in other sections of a patient's medical record or separate forms dedicated to those elements of care. The MAR's primary purpose is to systematically track and confirm the administration of medications, making it an indispensable tool in nursing and medication management practices.