A nurse is caring for four clients. After administering morning medications, she realizes that the nifedipine prescribed for one client was inadvertently administered to another client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Fill out an occurrence form.
Administer the medication to the correct client.
Notify the client's provider.
Check the client's vital signs.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Filling out an occurrence form is necessary for documentation and accountability but is not the immediate priority after a medication error.
B. Administering the medication to the correct client should be done, but first, the nurse must ensure the safety and well-being of the client who received the wrong medication.
C. Notifying the client's provider is essential, but the nurse should first assess the client's condition to determine if any immediate actions are necessary.
D. Checking the client's vital signs is the first action the nurse should take to assess the client's current condition and any potential adverse effects from receiving the incorrect medication.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Verifying the client's room number is not a reliable method of identification, as multiple clients can be in the same room or the client may have been moved.
B. Checking the client's name on the MAR is a good practice but should be combined with a direct method of identification for accuracy.
C. Asking the client for their full name and date of birth is the standard practice for confirming identity before administering medications, ensuring that the nurse is addressing the correct individual.
D. Asking a family member to verify the client's identity is not appropriate, as the nurse must confirm the client's identity personally to maintain safety and accountability.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Assessing the pedal pulses with a Doppler device is not necessary in this situation; the focus should be on the apical pulse due to the irregularity noted in the radial pulse.
B. Assessing the pedal pulses for a full minute does not address the irregularity of the radial pulse and is not the priority.
C. While assessing the apical pulse is appropriate, using a Doppler device is not required unless there are difficulties in obtaining the pulse normally.
D. Assessing the apical pulse for a full minute is the correct action because it provides a more accurate reflection of the heart's rhythm and rate, especially when there is an irregular radial pulse.