A nurse is administering a medication that is classified as high-alert. What is the most appropriate action to prevent a medication error?

Verify the medication and dose with another nurse before administration

Administer the medication without a second nurse check

Rely on the automated dispensing system to prevent errors

Ask the client if they have taken this medication before

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A. Verify the medication and dose with another nurse before administration: High-alert medications carry a higher risk of causing significant harm if used incorrectly. Independent double-checking by another nurse ensures correct drug, dose, route, and patient, reducing the risk of serious medication errors.

B. Administer the medication without a second nurse check: Skipping a double-check increases the risk of administering an incorrect dose or medication. High-alert drugs require verification procedures because errors can have severe or fatal consequences.

C. Rely on the automated dispensing system to prevent errors: Automated systems reduce errors but are not foolproof. Human verification is still necessary, especially for high-alert medications, to catch potential mistakes that machines may miss.

D. Ask the client if they have taken this medication before: While patient history can provide context, clients may not accurately recall medications or doses. Verification through medical records and independent nurse checks is essential for safe administration.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Providing education to the client about proper medication administration:Client education is important for long-term management and adherence, but it does not directly ensure the immediate safety or effectiveness of the medication. Education alone cannot detect acute changes in respiratory status.

B. Assessing the client's respiratory status before and after administration:Evaluating respiratory rate, effort, lung sounds, and oxygen saturation before and after medication administration ensures that the drug is effective and that any adverse reactions are identified promptly. This assessment is essential for patient safety and guides clinical decision-making.

C. Administering the medication at the scheduled time:Timely administration helps maintain therapeutic drug levels, but giving the medication without assessing the client first may overlook contraindications or acute changes in respiratory function. Timing alone is not the priority.

D. Documenting the administration of the medication in the client's chart:Accurate documentation is required for legal and clinical records, but it does not directly impact the immediate safety or therapeutic effect of the medication. Assessment of the client takes precedence.

A. Ignore the client's concerns and proceed with administration. B. Ask another nurse to administer the medication C. Inquire about the client's concerns and provide education. D. Administer the medication to avoid delay.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Ignore the client's concerns and proceed with administration:Ignoring the client’s concerns violates patient autonomy and informed consent principles. Administering medication without addressing questions can lead to noncompliance, mistrust, or errors.

B. Ask another nurse to administer the medication:Delegating the medication without addressing the client’s concerns does not resolve the underlying issue. The nurse must first ensure the client understands and consents to the medication.

C. Inquire about the client's concerns and provide education:The nurse should first listen to the client’s questions and provide accurate, clear information about the medication. This approach supports informed decision-making, promotes adherence, and ensures patient safety.

D. Administer the medication to avoid delay:Giving the medication without addressing concerns could compromise the client’s safety and autonomy. Education and clarification must precede administration when questions are raised.

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A nurse is administering a medication that is classified as high-alert. What is the most appropriate action to prevent a medication error?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is B

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