Final answer:
After administering a medication, one must document the medication name, dosage, route of administration, and the administrator's name and credentials to ensure patient safety and proper medical record-keeping.
Step-by-step explanation:
When administering a medication, it is crucial to document several pieces of information immediately after the administration. These details include the medication name, the dosage, the route of administration, and the name and credentials of the person who administered the medication. This documentation ensures the safety and efficacy of the treatment, supports continuity of care, and is essential for legal and medical record-keeping purposes.
The dosage is particularly important, as it affects the therapeutic levels of the drug in the patient's system, and must be carefully calculated to avoid side effects or toxicity, especially in patients with liver or kidney dysfunction who may have altered metabolism or clearance rates. The route of administration is also notable, as it influences how quickly and effectively the drug reaches the bloodstream, as illustrated by different plasma concentration curves for intravenous, oral, or intramuscular administration.
By documenting these key details, medical practitioners contribute to a comprehensive patient care record that informs ongoing treatment decisions and promotes patient safety.