Which term describes the amount of medication discarded or unused?

• A. Administering person
• B. Quantity wasted
• C. Patient Name
• D. Drug Diversion

Answer: (B)

Understanding medication waste helps with accuracy in inventory and safety. The term that describes the amount of medication that is discarded or unused is the quantity wasted. This value captures what cannot be used, whether due to dosing decisions, expiration, or disposal policies, and is separate from what was actually given or what remains on hand. Tracking the quantity wasted is important for cost control, regulatory compliance, and preventing misuse. The other options don’t describe the leftover or discarded portion: they refer to who administers, or to patient identifiers, or to the act of taking meds outside proper channels.