A nurse is preparing to administer a medication to a client for the first time. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to help ensure safe medication administration?
Read the medication label twice prior to administration.
Use one patient identifier prior to medication administration.
Access the online drug formulary for an unfamiliar medication.
Ask the client if they have ever taken a similar medication.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Read the medication label twice prior to administration.
This action is crucial to ensure that the nurse correctly identifies the medication and verifies the dosage before administering it to the patient. By double-checking the medication label, the nurse can confirm that they have the right medication, in the correct dose, for the correct patient, and via the correct route. This practice helps prevent medication errors and promotes patient safety.
B. Use one patient identifier prior to medication administration.
Explanation: Using at least one patient identifier, such as the patient's name or date of birth, is a standard safety practice to confirm the patient's identity before administering any medication. This helps ensure that the medication is given to the right patient, reducing the risk of administering medications to the wrong individual.
C. Access the online drug formulary for an unfamiliar medication.
Explanation: While it's essential to be knowledgeable about medications, relying solely on an online drug formulary for unfamiliar medications may not be sufficient for safe administration. Online resources can provide valuable information, but they should supplement, not replace, comprehensive education and understanding of medications. Nurses should have a solid understanding of the medications they administer and consult additional resources as needed.
D. Ask the client if they have ever taken a similar medication.
Explanation: While it's important to gather information from the patient about their medical history and previous experiences with medications, solely relying on the patient's response may not be sufficient for ensuring safe medication administration. Patients may not always accurately recall or provide complete information about their medication history. Nurses should verify medication orders through appropriate channels and rely on documented medical records whenever possible to confirm medication history and suitability for administration.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "I will remove my antiembolic stockings while I am in bed": Antiembolic stockings, also known as compression stockings, are worn to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) by promoting venous return. Removing them while in bed would compromise their effectiveness in preventing blood clots.
B. "I will perform ankle and knee exercises every hour."
Performing ankle and knee exercises every hour helps prevent complications such as muscle atrophy, contractures, and thromboembolism associated with immobility. These exercises promote circulation, maintain joint mobility, and prevent stiffness.
C. "I will hold my breath when rising from a sitting position": Holding one's breath while rising from a sitting position can increase intra-abdominal pressure and potentially cause dizziness or fainting. It is not a recommended practice and may lead to orthostatic hypotension.
D. "I will have my partner help me change positions every 4 hours": Changing positions every 4 hours is important for preventing pressure ulcers and promoting comfort, but it may not be frequent enough to prevent other adverse effects of immobility, such as joint stiffness and muscle weakness. Frequent position changes, at least every 2 hours, are recommended to maintain circulation and prevent complications.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Hypertension in a parent: While a family history of hypertension may increase the risk of developing high blood pressure, it is considered a non-modifiable risk factor because individuals cannot change their genetic predisposition. However, individuals can take steps to manage hypertension through lifestyle modifications and medication.
B. Cultural beliefs: Cultural beliefs may influence health behaviors and attitudes toward health care, but they are not directly modifiable risk factors for heart disease. However, healthcare providers can work with individuals to address cultural barriers and develop culturally sensitive strategies for promoting heart-healthy behaviors.
C. Air quality: Environmental factors such as air pollution can contribute to cardiovascular disease risk, but air quality is not a modifiable risk factor for individuals on an individual level. However, efforts to improve air quality through environmental policies and regulations can help reduce population-level risk of heart disease.
D. Physical inactivity
Modifiable risk factors are those that can be changed or controlled to reduce the risk of developing a particular health condition. Physical inactivity is a modifiable risk factor because individuals can make lifestyle changes to increase their level of physical activity, which can help lower their risk of heart disease. Regular exercise has been shown to improve cardiovascular health by strengthening the heart, reducing blood pressure, improving cholesterol levels, and maintaining a healthy weight.
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