What role can a nurse play in ensuring that a correct dose of medication is administered to a patient?

Question

The medication administration process starts with a health care provider (medical doctor, physician’s assistant, or nurse practitioner) who examines a patient, makes a diagnosis, and then writes the order for a medication. A pharmacist then dispenses the medication and it is a nurse who usually administers the medication. As such, most medication errors occur as a result of a breakdown in the system. What role can a nurse play in ensuring that a correct dose of medication is administered to a patient?

Answer 1

When administering a medication always repeat the same process. Check patient name, provider, allergies, recommended dose for your patients, side effects. I always want to know side effects so I can be ready to respond should the patient have an adverse reaction.

If you are administering a medication (or dose) that you are not familiar with, take time to read about the medication, you may also call the pharmacy to confirm you have the right patient, dose, route, frequency.

Answer 2

Good question.  The nurse should check the doctor's order and see what it is the patient is getting.  Does it match the symptoms, is it the right dose, any allergies the doctor might not be aware of.  Double checking against the MAR and the medication to see if it is the same medication. 

 

When a patient is receiving a new medication for the first time or a change in a dose of a medication, it is important to be sure there are no contraindication with any other medication.  

 

Hope this helps