What is the first step when administering a medication?

The first step when administering a medication is to check the Medication Administration Record (MAR) for the patient. The MAR serves as an essential document that lists all medications that have been prescribed to a patient, along with specific details such as dosages, routes of administration, and scheduled times for administration. By reviewing the MAR, a healthcare provider can confirm that they are giving the right medication to the correct patient and can also identify any potential discrepancies or allergies that may impact medication administration.

Starting with the MAR helps ensure that the healthcare provider adheres to safety protocols and reduces the risk of medication errors. It acts as a foundation for subsequent steps, including checking the specific medication details, verifying the dose, and confirming the administration route and timing. Each of these additional checks is dependent on the initial accuracy of information sourced from the MAR. This foundational step establishes a clear pathway for safe and effective medication administration.