A nurse is teaching a client about the importance of reporting any medication errors that may occur during hospitalization. Which of the following statements by the client indicates a need for further education?

This is the safest action to take when there is a discrepancy between the barcode and the label of a medication. It prevents administering the wrong medication to a client, which could cause harm or adverse effects. It also alerts the pharmacy of a possible error in dispensing or labelling the medication.

Incorrect choices:

a) Administer the medication as prescribed and document the discrepancy: This is not a safe action to take when there is a discrepancy between the barcode and the label of a medication. It could result in administering the wrong medication to a client, which could cause harm or adverse effects. It also does not address the source of the error or prevent its recurrence.

b) Check the medication label and the prescription order again: This is not a sufficient action to take when there is a discrepancy between the barcode and the label of a medication. It could lead to confirmation bias, where the nurse overlooks or ignores the discrepancy and assumes that the medication is correct. It also does not address the source of the error or prevent its recurrence.

c) Contact the pharmacist and verify the medication: This is not an appropriate action to take when there is a discrepancy between the barcode and the label of a medication. It could delay the administration of the medication or create confusion about which medication is correct. It also does not address the source of the error or prevent its recurrence.

This statement shows that the client does not understand the potential consequences of medication errors, even if they seem minor. Minor errors can lead to serious adverse events, such as allergic reactions, drug interactions, or overdoses. The client should be informed that all medication errors should be reported and documented to prevent further harm and improve patient safety.

Incorrect choices:

a) I should tell you if I notice any unusual symptoms after taking my medication: This statement shows that the client understands the importance of monitoring for adverse reactions and communicating with the nurse.

b) I should check the label of the medication before I take it: This statement shows that the client is aware of their role in preventing medication errors by verifying the name, dose, and route of the medication.

d) I should ask questions if I am not sure about the purpose or side effects of the medication: This statement shows that the client is willing to seek clarification and education about their medication regimen.