Which of the following is a general principle of medication administration?

Washing hands and noting allergies before administering medication is a fundamental principle of medication administration. This practice is crucial for maintaining hygiene and preventing the spread of infections, which is particularly important in healthcare settings. By washing hands, a CMT minimizes the risk of contaminating medications or equipment, thus protecting both themselves and the residents they serve.

Additionally, noting allergies is vital because it informs the medication administration process and helps prevent potential adverse reactions. Being aware of any allergies a resident may have allows a medication technician to avoid administering any drugs that could trigger serious allergic responses, ensuring patient safety. This principle is foundational in promoting proper medication management and safeguarding the health and well-being of residents.

The other options reflect practices that could compromise resident safety and do not adhere to established guidelines for safe medication administration.