MAR & Medication Error Reduction: A Practical Guide

In Michigan AFC and HFA homes, Medication Administration Records (MARs) are a critical part of daily care. While they’re certainly reviewed during state inspections, their importance goes far beyond compliance.

A clean, accurate MAR is a reflection of your facility’s commitment to resident safety. When errors occur—whether in documentation or during med pass—they can have serious consequences for residents and open the door to liability for the home.

Common MAR Mistakes to Avoid

• Blank spaces: Every dose must be signed off, marked as refused, or explained.

• Late entries: Delayed documentation makes it impossible to confirm meds were given correctly.

• PRN gaps: PRN medications require not only administration time but also the resident’s response.

• Unclear corrections: Use a single line with initials—never scribbles or white-out.

Best Practices for Accurate MARs

• Standardize charting: Train staff to use consistent abbreviations and language.

• Shift-to-shift review: Outgoing and incoming staff should check MARs together.

• Weekly audits: Supervisors should review MARs regularly to catch small errors early.

• Controlled substances: Keep double-count logs signed by two staff each shift.

Reducing Medication Errors

Medication errors aren’t just about documentation—they’re about systems and habits.

• Limit distractions during med pass (phones down, focus on task).

• Apply the Five Rights: right person, right drug, right dose, right route, right time.

• Support relief staff: Errors spike when fill-ins aren’t trained on your process.

• Encourage reporting: Create a culture where near misses are reported without fear, so you can correct issues before harm occurs.

Why MARs Matter

• For residents: MARs provide a clear record of safe and consistent care.

• For staff: MARs protect caregivers by showing that medications were given correctly.

• For providers: MARs reduce liability, prevent citations, and demonstrate strong risk management.

Bottom Line

Medication records are more than paperwork—they’re proof of safe, consistent care. By training staff, standardizing processes, and reviewing MARs regularly, you can reduce errors, protect residents, and protect your business.