Ask any question about Nursing here... and get an instant response.
Post this Question & Answer:
How does the nurse prevent medication administration errors?
Asked on Nov 13, 2025
Answer
Preventing medication administration errors is crucial for patient safety and involves following established protocols such as the "Five Rights" of medication administration. Nurses must ensure the right patient, right medication, right dose, right route, and right time, while also considering any patient-specific factors that may affect medication safety.
Example Nursing Steps:
- Step 1 – Verify the "Five Rights" of medication administration: right patient, right medication, right dose, right route, and right time.
- Step 2 – Perform a double-check of high-alert medications with another nurse and use barcode scanning if available.
- Step 3 – Document the administration accurately and monitor the patient for any adverse reactions or side effects.
Additional Comment:
- Always confirm patient identity using two identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth).
- Be aware of look-alike/sound-alike medications to prevent mix-ups.
- Educate patients about their medications to increase adherence and awareness.
- Report any medication errors or near misses according to facility policy to improve safety systems.
- Use the ABCs (Airway, Breathing, Circulation) to prioritize care if an adverse reaction occurs.
Recommended Links:
