MAR Chart Guidance
The Medication Administration Record (MAR) chart is the primary document for recording all medication administered to residents. It must be completed accurately and contemporaneously — that is, at the time of administration, not later from memory.
What Is a MAR Chart?
A MAR chart is a record of all the medication prescribed for a resident and a log of when each dose is administered, refused, or omitted. It serves as:
- •A legal record of medication administration
- •A communication tool between staff, GPs, and pharmacists
- •An audit tool for medication management
- •Evidence of compliance with CQC Regulation 12 and Regulation 17
How to Complete a MAR Chart
Signing for Administrated Medication
- • Sign in the correct date/time box immediately after giving the medication
- • Use your full signature or initials as per the signature sheet — be consistent
- • Never pre-sign (sign before administering) — this is a serious breach
- • Never sign for medication administered by someone else
- • Record the actual time if it differs from the prescribed time
Recording a Refused Dose
- • Circle the time box or use the agreed coding (check your organisation's policy)
- • Record the reason for refusal if known (e.g. “resident feels nauseous”)
- • Try to administer again later if within the allowed time window
- • If the resident consistently refuses, inform the GP and nurse in charge
- • Never force medication — document the refusal clearly
Recording an Omitted Dose
- • Mark the box as omitted using the agreed code
- • State the reason: resident nil by mouth, medication not available, resident off unit
- • Follow your organisation's policy on late administration windows
- • If the medication was unavailable, record what action was taken to obtain it
Common MAR Chart Coding
Most care homes use a standard coding system. Always check your organisation's specific codes.
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| A | Administered (or sign/initial in box) |
| O | Omitted — reason recorded |
| R | Refused by resident — reason recorded |
| N | Not available — pharmacy contacted |
| S | Self-administered (where applicable) |
| U | Resident unconscious / nil by mouth |
| H | On leave / hospital appointment |
| D | Discontinued — new chart issued |
Common MAR Chart Errors
- ✗Pre-signing — signing before administering (a serious medication error)
- ✗Signing for another person — each person signs only what they administered
- ✗Leaving boxes blank — every box must be accounted for
- ✗No reason for omission — if a dose is not given, the reason must be recorded
- ✗Illegible writing — signatures and codes must be clear and readable
- ✗Outdated charts — MAR charts must be renewed monthly or when medication changes
- ✗PRN not recorded— “as required” medication must be recorded with indication and response
Good Practice Tips
- ✓Check the MAR chart for new or changed prescriptions at the start of every shift
- ✓Keep MAR charts in a secure location — they are confidential records
- ✓Ensure all staff are trained on the specific MAR chart system your home uses
- ✓Audit MAR charts regularly as part of your medication management governance
- ✓Replace the MAR chart immediately when medication is changed — do not handwrite changes without authorisation from the prescriber or pharmacist