What does it mean to administer medication?

Administering medication specifically refers to the act of giving a properly dispensed medication to a patient in accordance with a licensed practitioner's order. This process involves ensuring that the right patient receives the correct medication, in the appropriate dosage, and at the designated time, which is a critical component of patient care. The emphasis is on following legal and clinical guidelines to ensure safety and efficacy in medication delivery. This responsibility typically falls to healthcare professionals like nurses or trained staff who have the proper protocols in place to guide their actions.

The other choices involve different aspects of medication management but do not accurately describe the act of medication administration. Distributing medication refers to the logistical aspect of organizing medication for various departments, which is not the same as giving the medication directly to a patient. Storing medication pertains to the safekeeping and organization of medications but does not involve the actual administration process. Prescribing medication is the responsibility of a healthcare provider who evaluates the patient and determines the appropriate medication, but it is distinct from the act of administering the medication itself.