The nurse is preparing to administer medications to a patient. When the patient reports new shortness of breath, which action by the nurse is most appropriate?
A) Provide the patient with oxygen since it does not require a provider order.
B) Complete at least three checks to ensure that the proper medication is given.
C) Check the provider orders for all forms of prescription medications.
D) Document that the 6 rights of medication administration were followed.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

All forms of prescription medication (i.e., oral, topical, and parenteral) require an order before administration, as does providing oxygen to a patient. The nurse would check for an as needed order for oxygen. Nurses must complete three checks, follow the six rights of medication administration, and document appropriately when administering medications, but those actions are not the priority due to the change in the patient's condition. The nurse must first address the patient's shortness of breath.

The Nurse Is Preparing to Administer Medications to a Patient