Question

A nurse is preparing to administer an injection of an opioid medication to a client. The nurse draws out 1 mL of the medication from a 2 mL vial. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Option 1:
Ask another nurse to observe the medication wastage.

Option 2:
Notify the pharmacy when wasting the medication.

Option 3:
Lock the remaining medication in the controlled substances cabinet.

Option 4:
Dispose of the vial with the remaining medication in a sharps container.

Answer 1

The nurse should ask another nurse to observe the medication wastage.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should take Option 1: Ask another nurse to observe the medication wastage. When drawing out medication from a vial, it is important to have another nurse observe the process to ensure accuracy and prevent any potential medication errors. This is a safety measure that helps reduce the risk of mistakes and promotes accountability. By having a second nurse observe the wastage, any discrepancies or errors in medication administration can be identified and addressed promptly.