SAFE MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION PRACTISES

What is the primary purpose of the "Five Rights" of medication administration?

• To ensure timely documentation

• To prevent medication errors

• To reduce healthcare costs

• To speed up the medication process

Before administering medication, how should a nurse verify the patient's identity?

• Ask the patient to state their full name and date of birth, and compare this information to the medication administration record and the patient's ID armband.

• Check the room number and bed assignment.

• Ask the patient if they are expecting medication.

• Rely on the patient's appearance.

When is the appropriate time to document medication administration?

• Before preparing the medication

• Immediately after administering the medication

• At the end of the shift

• After the patient reports any side effects

Which of the following is NOT one of the traditional "Five Rights" of medication administration?

• Right patient

• Right route

• Right diagnosis

• Right time

What should a nurse do if a medication order is unclear or illegible?

• Guess the intended medication

• Consult a colleague

• Contact the prescribing provider for clarification

• Proceed with administration based on past orders

Which practice helps ensure accurate medication dosing?

• Estimating the dose based on experience

• Using standard measurement devices like graduated cups or syringes

• Relying on the patient's self-report

• Using household utensils for measurement

What is the correct action if a nurse identifies a medication error?

• Ignore it if no harm is done

• Report it at once to the supervisor

• Wait until the end of the shift to report

• Only report if the patient asks

Why is it important to assess a patient's ability to swallow before administering oral medication?

• To determine if they prefer liquid medication

• To ensure they can safely ingest the medication without choking

• To decide if they need a straw

• To check if they have a sore throat