What should a CRMA do if a client shows signs of an adverse drug reaction?

The appropriate action for a Certified Residential Medication Aide (CRMA) when a client shows signs of an adverse drug reaction is to document the reaction and inform a supervisor immediately. Recognizing and addressing adverse drug reactions is critical to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of clients. Prompt documentation helps create an accurate medical record, which can be essential for healthcare providers in determining the best course of action.

Informing a supervisor allows for professional evaluation and intervention, ensuring that the client receives appropriate care based on their specific needs. This procedure aligns with established protocols that emphasize communication in healthcare settings, enabling the team to respond effectively and safely to medication-related issues.

Ignoring the symptoms of an adverse drug reaction would endanger the client's health by potentially allowing more severe complications to arise. Waiting for a follow-up appointment delays necessary interventions and could worsen the client's condition. Independently changing the medication dosage bypasses the established safety protocols and risks harming the client.