Question

A nurse is administering aspirin 82 mg PO daily as prescribed. The medication is scheduled for 0800 hours. Which of the following demonstrates proper use of one of the six rights of medication administration?

A. The nurse performs the first check of the correct dosage at the patient's bedside.
B. The nurse identifies the patient by stating the patient's name as written on the medication record.
C. The nurse documents that the aspirin was given at 0825.
D. The nurse opens the 82 mg aspirin unit dose package prior to entering the patient's room.

Answer 1

The correct action demonstrating proper medication administration is when the nurse documents that aspirin was given at 0825, which adheres to the 'right documentation' aspect of the six rights of medication administration.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse demonstrating proper use of one of the six rights of medication administration is when the nurse documents that the aspirin was given at 0825. This is crucial, as accurate documentation is considered a professional and legal requirement that ensures continuity of care and safety in medication administration. Documentation forms part of the 'right documentation,' which includes ensuring that the administration of the drug is properly recorded as part of the six rights, which are the right patient, right medication, right dose, right route, right time, and the right documentation.

In addition to documentation, it's also fundamental that the nurse confirms the correct dosage, consults a physician before beginning any aspirin regimen due to the potential side effects of aspirin, and considers the right time for administering the medication, as aspirin is commonly used as an anticoagulant and prevents cardiovascular disease. Conversion of units is also important in medication administration, as seen in the case of converting grams to milligrams.