What potential risk do all medications have?

All medications, regardless of their intended use or therapeutic effects, inherently carry the risk of potential side effects and adverse reactions. This is a fundamental aspect of pharmacology and is true for both prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs. Side effects are non-targeted responses that can be harmful or uncomfortable, while adverse reactions may occur in a small subset of patients and can sometimes be severe or life-threatening.

Understanding this risk is crucial for direct care staff, especially when working with individuals who may be more vulnerable, such as those with dementia. This knowledge allows caregivers to monitor patients closely for any changes in behavior or health after medication administration and to communicate effectively with healthcare providers about the patient's condition.

While options like financial costs, allergic reactions, and ineffectiveness are valid concerns surrounding medication, they do not apply universally to all medications in the same way that side effects and adverse reactions do. Every medication is expected to have the potential for side effects, making this answer the most relevant and applicable across the board.