Preventing a Medication Error

■ Always observe the five medication rights.
■ Triple check all medications given.
■ Always read product packaging to note strength and route.
■ Always double check with a pharmacist about dosage range.
■ When mixing insulin, have second nurse witness.
■ Always have a colleague confirm dosage calculations and infusion pump programming.
■ Clarify any order that is unclear or contains abbreviations.
■ Label all syringes and discard syringe immediately after use.
■ Do not borrow medications from other patients.
■ Do not begin new medications before the order has been received in the pharmacy, as this circumvents the built-in checks that can detect a potential error.
■ Document immediately after administering any medication.
■ Do not document a medication until after it has been administered.