A registered nurse interprets that a scribbled medication order reads 25 mg. The nurse administers 25 mg of the medication to a patient and then discovers that the dose was incorrectly interpreted and should have been 15 mg. Who is ultimately responsible for the error?

Nurse

Health care provider

Hospital

Pharmacist

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A: The nurse is ultimately responsible for the error. Nurses are responsible for ensuring the correct administration of medications, which includes verifying the correct dosage. When a nurse administers medication, they must double-check the order, especially if it is unclear or illegible. In this case, the nurse misinterpreted the scribbled order and administered an incorrect dose, making them accountable for the error. Nurses are trained to seek clarification if there is any doubt about a medication order to prevent such mistakes.

B: The health care provider, while responsible for prescribing the medication, is not ultimately responsible for the administration error in this scenario. The provider’s role is to ensure that the prescription is clear and accurate. However, if the order is unclear, it is the nurse’s responsibility to seek clarification before administering the medication. The health care provider would be responsible if the error was due to a prescribing mistake, but in this case, the error occurred during the administration phase.

C: The hospital, as an institution, provides the environment and resources for patient care but is not directly responsible for individual medication administration errors. The hospital’s role includes ensuring that systems are in place for safe medication practices, such as proper training and protocols. However, the responsibility for the error lies with the individual who administered the medication incorrectly.

D: The pharmacist’s role is to dispense medications accurately and provide information about the medication. While pharmacists can catch potential errors in prescriptions, they are not responsible for the administration of the medication. In this case, the pharmacist would not be held accountable for the nurse’s misinterpretation and incorrect administration of the medication.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A: Discreetly hiding the medication in the patient’s favorite gelatin is unethical and violates the patient’s right to informed consent. This approach undermines trust and can lead to further resistance or legal issues.

B: Agreeing with the patient’s decision and documenting it in the chart is important, but it should not be the first action. The nurse needs to understand the patient’s reasons for refusal before making any decisions or documentation.

C: Exploring with the patient the reasons for not wanting to take the medication is the appropriate first action. This approach allows the nurse to understand the patient’s concerns, address any misconceptions, and provide relevant information. It also respects the patient’s autonomy and promotes a collaborative approach to care.

D: Educating the patient about the importance of the medication is crucial, but it should follow the exploration of the patient’s reasons for refusal. Understanding the patient’s perspective first ensures that the education provided is relevant and addresses specific concerns.

A. “I will keep the fluorescent ceiling light on in my room at night.” B. “I will keep my walker at the end of my bed.” C. “I will place a bath seat in my shower to use when I bathe.” D. “I will place an area rug at the entry of my bathroom.”

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A: Keeping a fluorescent ceiling light on at night can be too bright and disrupt sleep. A nightlight is a better option for safety without disturbing sleep.

B: Keeping the walker at the end of the bed is not ideal. The walker should be within easy reach to prevent falls when getting out of bed.

C: Placing a bath seat in the shower is a good safety measure. It provides stability and reduces the risk of slipping and falling while bathing.

D: Placing an area rug at the entry of the bathroom can be a tripping hazard. It is better to use non-slip mats that are securely placed.

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A registered nurse interprets that a scribbled medication order reads 25 mg. The nurse administers 25 mg of the medication to a patient and then discovers that the dose was incorrectly interpreted and should have been 15 mg. Who is ultimately responsible for the error?

Nursing Test Bank

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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Explanation

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