Author Question: Medications may come in a unit-dose package with a bar code that is scanned by a computer. Which ... (Read 25 times)

WhattoUnderstand · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

Medications may come in a unit-dose package with a bar code that is scanned by a computer. Which process should the nurse perform before administering unit-dose medication?

1. Remove each medication from the packaging.
2. Check the medications in alphabetic order.
3. Read the drug label at least three times.
4. Ask the patient to name each of their medications.

Question 2

Many drugs have names that sound or look alike. As a nurse administering two such similar medications, it is important that you do which of the following?

1. Check the spelling and name of each medication.
2. Check the physician's order only.
3. Ask the Team Leader to check the order with you.
4. Ask the patient which one of the medications they take.

katara · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

3
Irrespective of the way the medication comes, you must read the drug label at least three times: (1) before taking the drug from the unit-dose cart or shelf, (2) before preparing or measuring the prescribed dose of medication, and (3) before putting the medication back on the shelf or just before opening the medication at the time you give it to the patient.

Answer to Question 2

1
It is important to check the spelling of the name and the dose of each medication before any drug is given.