A practical nurse is preparing to administer scheduled morning medications to a client who is nonverbal and experiencing acute delirium. The client's family is not currently present in the room. Which action describes the correct method for verifying this client's identity prior to medication administration?
- AState the client's full name aloud and observe the client closely for a confirming nod or gesture.
- BVerify the client's identity by checking the room and bed number listed on the wall above the bed.
- Compare the name and date of birth on the client's attached identification band with the electronic medication administration record.Answer
- DAsk the alert client in the adjacent bed to verbally confirm the confused client's first and last name.
Answer
Compare the name and date of birth on the client's attached identification band with the electronic medication administration record.
Safe medication administration requires verifying at least two distinct patient identifiers, such as the client's full name and date of birth. For a client who is nonverbal and confused, the nurse cannot rely on verbal confirmation and must instead use objective, attached identifiers by comparing the client's physical wristband directly to the electronic medication administration record.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Medication Administration Rights: Patient Identification