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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","D","E"]
No explanation
Correct Answer is ["A","C","E"]
Explanation
A. Place the client in high-Fowler's position: Placing the client in high-Fowler's position (sitting up at a 90-degree angle) can help improve oxygenation by optimizing lung expansion. This position facilitates better respiratory mechanics and can be beneficial for clients experiencing respiratory distress.
B. Administering epinephrine to the client: Epinephrine is not indicated for the management of fluid overload or transfusion reactions characterized by respiratory symptoms such as TRALI. Therefore, this action is not appropriate in this scenario.
C. Administer oxygen to the client: Hypoxia is a serious concern and requires immediate intervention. Administering oxygen will help improve oxygenation and alleviate respiratory distress.
D. Obtaining a prescription for a diuretic: While diuretics may be indicated in some cases of fluid overload, their use should be guided by the healthcare provider's assessment and prescription. Obtaining a prescription for a diuretic may be considered after the transfusion has been stopped and the healthcare provider has evaluated the client.
E. Stop the transfusion: The presence of lung crackles, hypoxia, and distended neck veins suggests fluid overload, which can be a sign of transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI) or circulatory overload. Stopping the transfusion is essential to prevent further fluid overload and worsening of respiratory symptoms.
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