Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 74%
Simulated
A nurse is preparing to administer medication to a client who has a new prescription. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
The correct answer is D: Identify the client using two means of identification. This should be the first action because patient safety is the top priority in medication administration. By verifying the client's identity with two means of identification, such as name and date of birth or medical record number, the nurse ensures that the right medication is given to the right person. This step helps prevent medication errors and ensures patient safety.
The other choices are incorrect because:
A: Validating the prescription with the available medication should come after identifying the client to ensure the medication is being given to the correct person.
B: Calculating the correct amount of medication should be done after verifying the client's identity to ensure the prescription is accurate for that specific individual.
C: Documenting the time of medication administration is important but should come after confirming the client's identity to prevent errors in medication administration.
The other choices are incorrect because:
A: Validating the prescription with the available medication should come after identifying the client to ensure the medication is being given to the correct person.
B: Calculating the correct amount of medication should be done after verifying the client's identity to ensure the prescription is accurate for that specific individual.
C: Documenting the time of medication administration is important but should come after confirming the client's identity to prevent errors in medication administration.