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: Securing the restraints to the lowest bar of the side rail is incorrect. Restraints should be secured to the bed frame, not the side rail, to prevent injury.

B: Ensuring four fingers fit under the restraints is too loose. The correct fit is typically two fingers to ensure the restraint is secure but not too tight.

C: Securing the restraints using a quick-release tie is correct. This allows for quick removal in case of an emergency.

D: Anticipating removing the restraints every 4 hours is incorrect. Restraints should be checked and potentially removed more frequently, typically every 2 hours, to assess skin integrity and circulation.

A. Apply petroleum jelly to the client’s lips after oral care. B. Turn the client on his side before starting oral care. C. Use the thumb and index finger to keep the client’s mouth open. D. Use a stiff toothbrush to clean the client’s teeth.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A: Applying petroleum jelly to the client’s lips after oral care can help prevent dryness and cracking, but it is not the primary action to ensure safety during oral care.

B: Turning the client on his side before starting oral care is the correct action. This position helps prevent aspiration of fluids and secretions during the procedure, ensuring the client’s safety.

C: Using the thumb and index finger to keep the client’s mouth open is not safe or effective. A mouth prop or padded tongue blade should be used instead.

D: Using a stiff toothbrush can cause damage to the gums and oral tissues. A soft-bristled toothbrush is recommended for gentle and effective cleaning.

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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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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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