A nurse is preparing to provide postmortem care for a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?

Correct responses:

A. When preparing the medication dosage: Comparing the medication administration record with the medication label during preparation helps ensure the correct medication and dosage are being used.

B. Directly before administering the medication: This final check ensures that the medication being given matches the prescription and the right patient, minimizing the risk of errors.

D. When removing the medication from the medication drawer: This initial check ensures that the medication being retrieved is the correct one as per the medication administration record.

The other options are not directly related to verifying the medication administration record against the medication label:

C. When reconciling counts of controlled substances: This is important for ensuring accurate inventory but is not related to verifying medication administration.

E. At the end of the shift: This is not a time for verifying medication records and labels; it’s more related to end-of-shift documentation and handoff.

A. "I need to set my hot water heater to 140 degrees Fahrenheit":
This statement is incorrect. The recommended safe temperature for a hot water heater is generally set to 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius) to prevent scalds and burns. A setting of 140 degrees Fahrenheit increases the risk of burns, especially for vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.
B. "I will use the grab bars when getting in and out of the bathtub":
This statement indicates an understanding of the importance of using safety features, such as grab bars, to prevent falls in the bathroom. Using grab bars provides support and stability during activities like getting in and out of the bathtub, reducing the risk of accidents.
C. "I will apply tape over frayed areas of electrical cords":
This statement is incorrect. Using tape on frayed electrical cords is not a safe or effective solution. Frayed cords should be replaced to avoid the risk of electrical shock or fire. Using tape may not adequately address the underlying safety issue and can be a hazard itself.
D. "I need to check my medications for expiration dates":
This statement reflects an understanding of the importance of medication safety. Checking medication expiration dates is crucial to ensure the efficacy and safety of the medications. Expired medications may be less effective or potentially harmful.
E. "I need to have a fire escape plan with my family":
This statement shows awareness of the importance of having a fire escape plan at home. Having a plan in place helps ensure that everyone in the household knows what to do in case of a fire, improving overall safety.