Question

An RN delegates to an experienced LPN/LVN the task of administering oral

medications to a group of patients. The LPN/LVN accepts the assignment, and the RN knows that the LPN/LVN has had the training and has acquired the skills needed to complete the task. The RN then observes the LPN/LVN recording a patient's medication administration just before entering the patient's room. The priority intervention by the RN is to:
a) Ask the LPN/LVN if they have completed the medication administration
b) Question the LPN/LVN about the timing of the medication administration
c) Notify the patient about the medication administration
d) Document the observation in the LPN/LVN's performance review
e) Inform the healthcare provider about the LPN/LVN's actions

Answer 1

The RN should question the LPN/LVN about the timing of the medication administration to ensure that proper procedures are followed and documentation is accurate, reflecting the actual time of administration.

Step-by-step explanation:

The priority intervention by the RN should be to question the LPN/LVN about the timing of the medication administration. Pre-charting medications before they are given is not considered best practice and can lead to medication errors. The RN should ensure that medications are administered correctly and documented accurately. In direct supervision of a registered nurse, it's vital to maintain a standard of care that includes proper procedures for medication administration. This includes not only the correct administration of medications but also ensuring that documentation occurs after the medication has been given to the patient, reflecting the actual time of administration.

Medication administration should be approached with the same precision and care as other medical procedures. Just as medical teams are required to review aloud key concerns and follow checklists, such as in surgery or when inserting a central line as proposed by Dr. Pronovost, medication administration requires strict adherence to procedure and documentation after the task is completed. This helps to prevent errors and maintain patient safety.