3 Medication checks

Question 1

First Check

Answer 1

Review of the medication administration record (MAR) and the prescriber orders. You are verifying that the medication on the MAR and the most current prescriber order match and that no changes have been made i.e. discontinued, increased or decreased.

Question 2

Second Check

Answer 2

Occurs at the Pyxis or Med chart, often in the medication room. You will physically hold the medication to the MAR, as you take it out of the dispensing system, tp verify that it is correct i.e. medication, dose, ect. Verify the date on the medication to see if it is expired. Complete any math calculations that may be necessary. High alert medications require a second nursing verification. Double cup meds that require a nurse intervention (HR, BP, ect) If a med does not required a nurse intervention prior to administration, it can be single cupped.

Question 3

Third Check

Answer 3

Occurs in the pts room. After verifying the pt i.e. first name, last name, DOB, MR#, allergies, you will explain the medication to the pt in terms that they can understand including the name of the meds, what is for, and the dose. Perform any nurse interventions that may be necessary prior to giving meds e.g HR, BP. Physically hold the medication to MAR an verify that it is the correct medication and does one last time before administration.