Question

To make sure that you are administering the correct medication, how many times do you need to check the medication before administering it?

a. 1
b. 2
c. 3
d. 4

Answer 1

To ensure correct medication administration, it is standard practice to check the medication three times before administering it to a patient. The three checks verify that the medication aligns with the patient's order and the medication administration record. The correct answer is c. 3.

Step-by-step explanation:

To ensure the safety and efficacy of medication administration, it is standard practice to check the medication three times before administering it to a patient. This is known as the "Three Checks of Medication Administration." The checks are done:

• When the medication is pulled or retrieved from the medication dispenser or when it is first handled.
• When preparing the medication, checking against the medication administration record (MAR) or the patient's order.
• Before administering the medication to the patient, verifying once again with the MAR or patient's order.

This triple-check process ensures that the right patient receives the right medication, at the right dose, via the right route, and at the right time, which aligns with the principles of safe medication administration protocols. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is c. 3.