After administering a medication to a client, the nurse realizes that the client was given another client's drug. What must the nurse do next?
Document the error on the client's medical record and notify the supervisor.
Check the client's MAR for drug allergies, and if there is no indicated allergy to the drug administered in error, no further action is necessary.
Call the health care provider immediately and complete an incident report.
Administer the original drug and observe the client frequently for adverse reactions to the first drug.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: While documentation and supervisor notification are crucial, immediate action involving the health care provider ensures timely response to potential adverse effects from the medication error.
Choice B reason: Relying solely on the absence of drug allergies is insufficient and may jeopardize patient safety. Errors require immediate communication and reporting for appropriate interventions.
Choice C reason: Timely provider notification prioritizes patient safety and enables corrective measures. Completing an incident report supports institutional transparency and learning to prevent future errors.
Choice D reason: Administering additional drugs risks compounding harm. The priority is addressing the initial error and ensuring patient safety without introducing further interventions.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Fentanyl patches provide continuous opioid delivery for 72 hours; their fixed schedule isn’t “as needed,” making them unsuitable for acute, variable pain management.
Choice B reason: Acetaminophen with oxycodone is scheduled every 6 hours; this fixed interval lacks the flexibility of “as needed,” limiting its use for breakthrough pain relief.
Choice C reason: Morphine extended-release is designed for sustained release over 12 hours; its fixed dosing isn’t “as needed,” restricting its role to chronic, not acute, pain control.
Choice D reason: Ketorolac IV every 4 hours prn allows flexible dosing; this NSAID targets inflammation and pain acutely, ideal for as-needed administration within safe limits.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: One 5-mg tablet delivers 5 mg; this underdoses the 10 mg ordered, reducing salivation stimulation needed for dry eye relief.
Choice B reason: Two 5-mg tablets equal 10 mg; this matches the order, ensuring therapeutic cholinergic effect to increase tear production effectively.
Choice C reason: Three tablets (15 mg) overdose; excess pilocarpine risks side effects (e.g., sweating, bradycardia) without added benefit for dry eyes.
Choice D reason: Four tablets (20 mg) far exceed the dose; this could cause severe cholinergic toxicity, including respiratory distress, outweighing therapeutic intent.
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