Question

The nurse administers medication to the wrong client. Which action(s) should the nurse take when the medication error is identified? Select all that apply.

Complete an incident report

Administer ipecac syrup to the client

Report the error to the board of nursing

Document the error in the medical record

Notify the health care provider

Monitor the client for adverse effects

Answer 1

When a nurse administers medication to the wrong client, actions should include completing an incident report, notifying the healthcare provider, and monitoring the client for adverse effects.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a nurse administers medication to the wrong client and the error is identified, several actions should be taken to address the situation:

1. Complete an incident report: This documents the occurrence of the error and provides a record for quality improvement purposes.
2. Notify the health care provider: Informing the provider allows them to assess the situation and provide guidance on necessary steps.
3. Monitor the client for adverse effects: Keeping a close eye on the client helps to catch any potential complications as a result of the medication error.

Administering ipecac syrup, reporting the error to the board of nursing, and documenting the error in the medical record are not appropriate actions in this scenario.