Question

A nurse is preparing to administer medication to a client who has gout. The nurse discovers that an error was made during the previous shift and the client received atenolol ( Beta blocker) instead of allopurinol (treats gout /high uric acid levels) . Which of the following actins should the nurse take first?

A.Obtain the client's blood pressure
B.Contact the client's provider
C.Inform the charge nurse
D.Complete an incident report

Answer 1

The nurse should first obtain the client's blood pressure when discovering a medication error where atenolol was given instead of allopurinol, then report to the provider and charge nurse, and file an incident report.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a nurse discovers that a client who has gout has been given atenolol instead of allopurinol, the first action the nurse should take is to obtain the client's blood pressure. This is because atenolol is a beta blocker typically used to treat high blood pressure and could affect the client's cardiovascular status. It's essential to assess the client immediately for any potential effects caused by the medication error. After evaluating and ensuring the patient's safety, the nurse should then proceed to notify the client's provider and the charge nurse about the incident and complete an incident report.