Clinical ProceduresQuestion 34 of 100
Just before giving an injection, the medical assistant notices the vial label does not match the medication written in the provider's order. What should be done first?
a.Give the medication on the label, since it was pulled from the correct drawer
b.Give a half dose to be safe and document the discrepancy
c.Stop, do not administer, and clarify the order with the provider
d.Ask the patient which medication they usually receive and follow that
Explanation
Any discrepancy between the order and the medication must be resolved with the ordering provider before administration, because giving the wrong drug can cause serious harm. Administering the drug on the label ignores the order that authorizes the dose. Reducing the dose does not fix a wrong drug, and a patient's recollection is not a valid substitute for a verified order.
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