Where should you document the start of a new medication that the patient has never received?

Documenting the start of a new medication that the patient has never received should be noted in the Medication Administration Record (MAR). The MAR is a crucial tool used by healthcare providers to track medications that are prescribed and to ensure that they are administered accurately and at the correct times. It serves as a legal record of what medications a patient has been given, which is essential for ongoing patient safety and care continuity.

Including the new medication in the MAR helps to ensure that all members of the healthcare team are aware of the patient's medication regimen. This allows for monitoring the patient's response to the medication, checking for potential side effects, and making any necessary adjustments to the medication plan.

While the patient's chart, flowsheets, and care plans are important for documenting various aspects of patient care, the MAR specifically focuses on medication administration. This distinct function makes it the correct choice for documenting the initiation of a new medication.