6 Rights of Medication Administration
What is the first "Right" of medication administration?
Right Patient
The most common route of medication administration
Oral (by mouth)
What should you do if you realize you gave the wrong medication?
Report it immediately & follow facility protocols
What does "PO" mean in medication administration?
By mouth (oral)
If a patient refuses medication, what must you do?
Document the refusal & inform the nurse/provider.
Which "Right" ensures the medication is given at the correct hour?
Right Time
What is the correct position for rectal medication administration
Left side-lying (Sims' position)
How many times should you check the medication label before giving a drug?
Three times
What does "BID" mean on a medication order?
Twice a day
What does MAR stand for in medication administration?
Medication Administration Record
This "Right" prevents giving medication in the wrong form (IV, oral, rectal, etc.)
Right Route
What does "SL" stand for in medication administration?
Sublingual (under the tongue)
What is the most common type of medication error?
Wrong dose
If a medication order says "PRN" what does that mean?
As needed
What type of documentation is used for narcotics and controlled substances?
Controlled Substances Log
What should you do before administering a medication to ensure accuracy?
Check the MAR, verify patient ID and follow protocols
Which route involves placing medication between the cheek and gums?
Buccal
hat should you do if a medication order seems unclear on incorrect?
Clarify with the nurse or provider before administering
What does "NPO" mean for a patient?
Nothing by mouth
Why is it important to document medications immediately after administration?
To ensure accuracy and prevent medication errors.
What is the last "Right" that must always be completed after giving a medication
Right Documentation
A transdermal medication is given through what method?
Absorbed through the skin via a patch
What is an important step to prevent medication errors when pulling medications from a cart?
Read the MAR and verify the medication label before giving it
What does "QID" mean on a prescription?
Four times a day
What must always be included in medication documentation?
Drug name, dosage, route, time given, and initials of person administering