Which of the following actions minimizes the risk of medication errors when using the metric system?
Use fractions instead of decimals.
Write the unit abbreviation before the amount.
Avoid using trailing zeros after decimal points.
Always use Roman numerals for clarity.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Use fractions instead of decimals: Fractions can be confusing and prone to misinterpretation, increasing the risk of medication errors rather than minimizing them.
B. Write the unit abbreviation before the amount: Standard practice is to write the numeric amount first, followed by the unit (e.g., 5 mL), to avoid confusion and ensure clarity.
C. Avoid using trailing zeros after decimal points: Trailing zeros (e.g., 5.0 mg) can lead to tenfold dosing errors if misread. Omitting unnecessary zeros (e.g., 5 mg) enhances accuracy and reduces the risk of medication errors.
D. Always use Roman numerals for clarity: Roman numerals are not used in medication dosing because they are easily misinterpreted and do not improve clarity; they can increase the risk of errors.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Draw up regular insulin first, then NPH insulin: Regular insulin is clear and must be drawn up before NPH to prevent contamination of the regular insulin vial with the cloudy NPH. This maintains accurate dosing and preserves the pharmacologic integrity of the short-acting insulin.
B. Draw up NPH insulin first, then regular insulin: Drawing up NPH first risks contaminating the regular insulin vial with NPH, which can alter absorption and onset. This can lead to unpredictable glucose control and medication error.
C. Mix both insulins in the vial before drawing up: Insulins should never be mixed in the vial because this changes their individual action profiles. Mixing in the syringe after proper draw-up technique is the safe and accepted method.
D. Use separate syringes for each insulin type: Separate syringes are unnecessary when mixing compatible insulins like regular and NPH. Using one syringe reduces injections while still allowing accurate dosing when drawn up correctly.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. It provides a comprehensive list of medications to be administered: The MAR is a legal and clinical document that lists all prescribed medications, their dosages, routes, and times of administration. It serves as a primary reference for nurses to ensure accurate and timely medication delivery.
B. It schedules follow-up appointments for patients: The MAR does not include scheduling of appointments; its function is focused solely on medication management and administration.
C. It serves as a tool for patient education about side effects: While the MAR may indirectly support education by listing medications, it is not intended as an educational tool. Patient teaching requires separate counseling and documentation.
D. It verifies the patient's insurance coverage for medications: Insurance verification is handled through pharmacy and billing systems, not the MAR. The MAR’s purpose is clinical accuracy and safety in administering medications.
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