What term describes any dose of medication that is not given by the time the next dose is due?

The term that best describes any dose of medication that is not given by the time the next dose is due is "omission." This term is commonly used in medical contexts to indicate that a dose was scheduled but not administered. Omissions can occur for various reasons, such as oversight, patient refusal, or contraindications that arise after the medication was prescribed.

While the other terms may seem relevant, they often have more specific meanings. A "missed dose" typically refers to a specific instance where a scheduled dose was not taken, which aligns with the concept of omission but lacks the broader context. "Late administration" focuses more on administering a dose after the scheduled time rather than on the fact that it was not given altogether. "Delayed dosage" suggests a postponement of medication but doesn't inherently imply that the dose was completely missed.

Understanding the precise terminology is crucial in medication administration to ensure accurate reporting and compliance with protocols. Recognizing an omission signals the need for appropriate interventions to avoid unintended consequences for patient care.