What happens to the MAR when the rate of medication is changed?

When the rate of medication is changed, the Medication Administration Record (MAR) is updated to reflect only the new rate. This is because the MAR is designed to provide a clear and current representation of medication orders to ensure safe and accurate administration by healthcare providers. By displaying only the new rate, the MAR eliminates any potential confusion or ambiguity that could arise from presenting both the old and new rates simultaneously.

In a clinical context, it is essential for caregivers to observe the most up-to-date instructions for the administration of medications to prevent errors and ensure patients receive the correct dosage as prescribed. Thus, having solely the current rate allows for more straightforward communication of care directives.

In contrast, past rates or prior orders are typically archived or noted elsewhere within the patient's medical record, ensuring that historical data is accessible when needed, but it does not clutter the MAR where the focus should solely be on current medication orders.