A nurse is preparing to administer medications to a client. At which of the following times should the nurse compare the medication administration record and the medication label? (Select all that apply.)

A. Combining medications with the formula in the feeding bag:

This is not recommended because it may lead to interactions between the medications and the enteral feeding formula. Medications may also adhere to the tubing or interfere with the absorption of nutrients from the feeding formula.

B. Diluting each crushed medication with warm water:

While diluting medications may be necessary for some drugs, it is not a general rule for all medications. Additionally, dilution with warm water may not be appropriate for all drugs, and the amount of water needed may vary. It's safer to use a standardized method, such as flushing the tube with sterile water.

C. Mixing the medications together in a single syringe:

This is generally not recommended because different medications may have incompatible properties or form precipitates when mixed together. Mixing medications in a single syringe can compromise the effectiveness of each medication and may lead to unpredictable reactions.

D. Flush the NG tube with 5 mL of sterile water for irrigation prior to administration:

Flushing the tube with sterile water helps ensure that the tube is clear of any residual formula, preventing potential interactions between the medication and the enteral feeding. It also helps clear the tube, reducing the risk of clogs or blockages. Using sterile water helps maintain aseptic technique.

A. Prepare the client for surgery:
In emergency situations, if immediate intervention is required to save the client’s life or prevent significant harm, the principle of implied consent may apply. This means that if the client is unconscious and immediate treatment is necessary, healthcare providers may proceed with treatment under the assumption that the client would consent if able. However, this should be done in accordance with facility policies and legal guidelines.
B. Obtain consent from the surgeon:
The surgeon is not the appropriate person to obtain consent from in this situation. Informed consent should ideally come from the client or a legal surrogate decision-maker, depending on the circumstances. Surgeons are responsible for discussing the procedure with the patient or their authorized representative before surgery, but obtaining consent is not the nurse's role.
C. Contact the facility's ethics committee for guidance:
While the ethics committee may provide guidance in complex ethical situations, the immediate concern in this emergency situation is to address the client's life-threatening condition. The nurse should prioritize actions that ensure the client receives timely and necessary medical care.
D. Keep the client stable until a family member arrives to give consent:
While obtaining consent from a family member is ideal, waiting for consent can delay critical and time-sensitive interventions. In emergency situations, the priority is to provide necessary medical care promptly to stabilize the client. If there is no one available to give consent immediately, healthcare providers may proceed with necessary interventions to preserve life and limb.