Final answer:
When a medication error occurs, the nurse should first assess the client's condition, inform the healthcare provider, follow the institution's protocol for reporting medication errors, and participate in quality improvement efforts.
Step-by-step explanation:
Actions to Take After Medication Error If a nurse discovers that a client received atenolol instead of allopurinol, the first action they should take is to assess the client's condition to ensure they are safe and not experiencing any adverse effects from the medication error. Next, the nurse should immediately inform the healthcare provider of the error to determine the appropriate next steps for the client's care. Following the initial response, the nurse should follow the facility's policy on medication errors, which often includes filling out an incident report. The report should detail the circumstances of the error to help prevent future incidents. It is important to provide supportive care to the client and monitor them closely for any potential side effects from the incorrect medication. Finally, reflecting on the error and considering ways to prevent similar mistakes is crucial. Nurses should engage in ongoing education regarding safe medication practices and participate in quality improvement initiatives that may be prompted by such incidents.
Learn more about Medication Error Protocol