Question

The medical assistant should check the medication label 3 times against the medication order. This is done

A) To avoid medication errors
B) To save time during the administration
C) As a routine procedure
D) To maintain inventory records

Answer 1

The medical assistant should check the medication label three times against the medication order mainly to avoid medication errors, which can have severe consequences for patient safety. This practice, which is focused on accuracy and precision, ensures the correct medication and dose is given to the patient.

Step-by-step explanation:

The medical assistant should check the medication label against the medication order three times primarily A) To avoid medication errors. In the medical field, the margin for error is minimal due to the potential impact on patient safety. Medication errors can vary from mild to severe and are a significant concern for medical and pharmaceutical personnel.

Medical professionals deal with dosages, concentration measurements, and dilutions that require meticulous attention to detail. Failure to check medication properly could lead to administering the wrong dose, which could be ineffective, cause harm, or in severe cases, be fatal. Therefore, repeating the label check is a critical step in ensuring the safety and efficacy of medication administration.

Medication error prevention is not just about individual patient safety; it has broader implications for the healthcare system, maintaining public trust, and legal accountability. Ensuring accuracy and precision in medication administration is a routine yet essential practice that every healthcare professional must uphold.