Question

The nurse is preparing to administer an intravenous medication to a client who is obtunded. What action is appropriate to confirm the client's identity?

Wake the client and ask them to state their name

Use the room number as an identifier

Compare the armband to the medical record

Ask the previous nurse to confirm the client's identity

Answer 1

To confirm an obtunded client's identity before administering IV medication, the most appropriate action is to compare the client's armband to their medical record. This method is reliable and does not depend on the client's consciousness, aligning with healthcare safety protocols.

Step-by-step explanation:

When administrating an intravenous medication to an obtunded client, it is crucial to confirm the client's identity safely and effectively. An obtunded patient has a diminished level of consciousness and may not respond to verbal stimuli. In this scenario, waking the client is not the most suitable action given the client's condition. Utilizing the room number as an identifier is unreliable, as clients may be moved, and room numbers are not unique to individuals. Likewise, asking another nurse to confirm the client's identity should not replace primary verification methods, although this could serve as an additional safety step.

The standard and most appropriate action is to compare the armband to the medical record. Patient armbands provide a reliable source of identification as they contain essential data such as the patient’s name, date of birth, and a unique identifying number that corresponds to their medical records. This method does not rely on the patient's level of consciousness and ensures that the correct individual is receiving the medication.

Health care professionals are trained to perform patient identification checks before procedures, which includes confirming the name, procedure, and ensuring that all medical records correspond to the patient present. This process is akin to safety checklists used in various critical settings, such as when ICU doctors insert a central intravenous line or when pilots prepare for takeoff. In the medical field, such checklists and verification steps are designed to prevent errors and ensure the safety and quality of patient care. The consistent application of these protocols is a fundamental aspect of nursing practice and plays a vital role in maintaining patient safety and delivering proper care.