A nurse is reviewing a client’s medication administration record (MAR). The nurse notices that a medication that was due at 0900 has not been given. It is now 1030. What should the nurse do first?
A.
Check if another nurse has given the medication
B.
Give the medication as soon as possible
C.
Document why the medication was delayed
D.
Report the incident to the charge nurse
The correct answer is:
A. Check if another nurse has given the medication.
Explanation: The nurse should first determine whether the medication has already been administered by another nurse. This step is crucial to avoid administering a double dose, which could cause harm to the client. Once it is confirmed that the medication has not been given, the nurse can proceed with administering it as soon as possible (option B) and then document the incident and reason for the delay (option C). Reporting the incident to the charge nurse (option D) would be appropriate after ensuring that the medication has been given and documenting the situation.