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9/10/24, 7:10 AM - Skendya Priceless: What are the different systems for storing
and distributing medications? Define each.
• The different systems include:
◦ Unit-dose system: Medications are individually packaged and dispensed
per dose, reducing errors.
◦ Automated dispensing systems: A computerized system that tracks and
dispenses medications, improving accuracy.
◦ Floor stock system: Common medications are stored on the unit and
administered as needed.
What should be included on a written or printed prescription?
• A prescription should include the patient's name, date, medication
name, dosage, route of administration, frequency, prescriber's name, and signature.
What are the different medication prescription types? Define each.
• Standing orders: Pre-written instructions for specific situations.
• PRN orders: Medications given as needed.
• Single orders: One-time medication orders.
• STAT orders: Medications to be given immediately.
What are the different ways that medication prescriptions are communicated? Define
each.
• Written prescriptions: Traditional hand-written or printed orders.
• Electronic prescriptions (e-prescriptions): Prescriptions sent
electronically to the pharmacy.
• Verbal orders: Orders given orally in emergency situations, requiring
documentation as soon as possible.
What should the nurse do if she believes there is an error in a prescription?
• The nurse should verify the prescription with the prescribing provider,
double-check the order, and follow institutional policies to ensure patient safety.
What is a medication error?
• A medication error is any preventable event that leads to incorrect
medication administration or harm to a patient.
Why do medication errors happen?
• Errors occur due to factors like poor communication, unclear
prescriptions, incorrect dosage calculations, distractions, and unfamiliarity with
medications.
How can a nurse prevent an error?
• Nurses can prevent errors by following the "rights" of medication
administration, double-checking orders, reducing distractions, and using technology
like barcoding systems.
What technology is used to help prevent medication errors? How does this help?
• Barcoding systems: Ensure the right patient receives the right
medication at the right time.
• Electronic Health Records (EHRs): Provide clear, legible prescriptions
and comprehensive patient information.
• Automated dispensing systems: Reduce manual handling of medications.
What should the nurse do if a medication error occurs?
• The nurse should report the error immediately to the supervising nurse
or provider, document the incident according to policy, monitor the patient, and
take corrective actions if necessary.
What are the three checks to administering a medication?
• Check the medication when retrieving it from storage, before preparing
the medication, and before administering it to the patient.
What are the 6 rights to medication administration? Describe each.
• Right patient: Verify the identity of the patient.
• Right medication: Ensure the correct medication is given.
 • Right dose: Confirm the proper dosage.
• Right route: Administer via the correct method (e.g., oral, injection).
• Right time: Ensure the medication is given at the correct time.
• Right documentation: Record the administration of the medication
accurately.
How do you pour a liquid medication?
• Pour the liquid medication at eye level, using the correct measuring
device (e.g., cup or syringe), ensuring the medication is measured accurately.
How do you administer a buccal or sublingual medication?
• For buccal administration, place the medication between the cheek and
gum. For sublingual, place it under the tongue. The medication should dissolve
without chewing or swallowing.
What difficulties does the nurse need to consider for the older adult when
administering medications?
• Older adults may have difficulty swallowing, decreased kidney/liver
function affecting drug metabolism, polypharmacy concerns, and cognitive issues
that may lead to non-compliance.
What are the different types of topical medications and how do you apply them?
• Creams/ointments: Apply to the skin by rubbing gently.
• Transdermal patches: Apply to clean, dry, hairless skin, rotating
application sites.
• Lotions: Spread lightly over the skin.
• Gels: Apply a thin layer over the affected area.
Describe how you would administer ophthalmic medications.
• Tilt the patient's head back, pull down the lower eyelid to create a
small pocket, and instill the prescribed number of drops without touching the
dropper to the eye.
Describe how you would administer otic medications.
• For adults, pull the ear upward and back; for children, pull the ear
downward and back. Administer the drops and have the patient remain in a side-lying
position for a few minutes.
Describe how you would administer nasal medications.
• Have the patient tilt their head back, insert the dropper or spray into
one nostril, and administer the medication. Instruct the patient to avoid blowing
their nose immediately after.
Describe how you would administer vaginal medications.
• Position the patient in the dorsal recumbent position, insert the
applicator or medication (e.g., cream or suppository) into the vaginal canal, and
instruct the patient to remain lying down for a few minutes.
Describe how you would administer rectal medications.
• Position the patient in the left lateral (Sims) position, lubricate the
suppository, and insert it into the rectum past the internal sphincter. Instruct
the patient to remain in the position for at least 5 minutes.
Describe the different respiratory medications and ways to administer them.
• Inhalers: Deliver a metered dose of medication directly into the lungs.
• Nebulizers: Deliver medication as a mist to be inhaled over a period of
time.
• Dry powder inhalers: Deliver medication in a fine powder form that the
patient inhales deeply.
What items are used to help children administer their inhalers?
• Spacer devices and face masks are often used to ensure children receive
the full dose of the medication and to make administration easier.