Medication safety Flashcards
What are the Five Rights of medication administration?
Right medicine, right dose, right person, right time, right route.
What additional checks are included in the Nine Rights of medication administration?
Right documentation, right action, right form, right response, and allergy status.
Why is a second check crucial for paediatric doses?
To ensure accuracy and safety for vulnerable populations.
What is a common error related to the “Right Patient”?
Failing to check two separate patient identifiers (e.g., full name, DOB, NHI).
Where are orally administered medications primarily absorbed?
In the stomach or small intestine.
What factors can influence the absorption of oral medications?
Food intake, gastric pH, and motility.
Why is it important to verify the patient’s ability to swallow medications?
To prevent choking or aspiration, especially in patients with swallowing difficulties.
What must be done with controlled drugs (CDs)?
They must be locked up with key or swipe access.
What actions require two signatures when handling controlled drugs?
Taking them out of the safe, documenting on the med chart, and at disposal.
What does a large needle gauge indicate about the needle bore?
A large needle gauge means a small needle bore (e.g., 22ga is fine bore). Example for use : vaccines
What is the maximum fluid volume for subcutaneous injections?
Less than 1 ml of fluid.
What is the maximum fluid volume for intramuscular (IM) injections?
Less than 5 ml of fluid.
Why is the choice of needle gauge important?
It affects the flow rate of the medication and the comfort of the injection.
