. A nurse is preparing a client's evening dose of risperidone when the tablet falls on the countertop. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Discard the tablet and obtain another dose of medication.
Use the tablet's packaging to pick it up from the counter.
Wash the tablet off with alcohol and place it in a clean medication cup.
Place the tablet directly into a medication cup.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Discarding the tablet and obtaining another dose is the safest option, as it ensures the medication's integrity and prevents any potential contamination.
B. Using the tablet's packaging to pick it up is not appropriate as it could introduce contaminants from the surface of the counter to the tablet.
C. Washing the tablet with alcohol is not advisable because it could alter the medication's properties or effectiveness.
D. Placing the tablet directly into a medication cup without addressing its contamination would also be inappropriate and could jeopardize client safety.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. While completing an incident report is important for documentation and quality improvement, it is not the immediate priority in the event of a medication error.
B. Notifying the nurse manager is a necessary step for reporting the error, but it should occur after ensuring the client's safety.
C. Calling the client's provider is essential to discuss the medication error and possible interventions, but the client's health and safety must be assessed first.
D. Assessing the client is the priority action to ensure the client’s safety and to identify any adverse effects resulting from the wrong medication. The nurse needs to determine the client's vital signs, level of consciousness, and any immediate symptoms related to the medication administered.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Mixing medications can alter their effectiveness and increase the risk of tube blockage. Each medication should be administered separately.
B. Flushing the NG tube with 30 mL of water after administering medications is important to ensure that the medications are cleared from the tube and absorbed properly by the patient. This also helps to prevent tube occlusion.
C. Diluting medications may not be necessary for all liquid medications, and it depends on the specific medication's guidelines. Each medication should be administered as directed.
D. The head of the bed should be elevated during and after medication administration to prevent aspiration. Keeping it flat is not recommended.