What should a nurse do if they discover a medication error?

When a nurse discovers a medication error, the most appropriate action is to report the error immediately and assess the patient. This approach prioritizes patient safety and well-being. By reporting the error right away, the healthcare team can take necessary steps to mitigate any potential harm, which could involve administering an antidote, monitoring for adverse effects, or other interventions based on the specifics of the medication involved.

Additionally, assessing the patient is crucial to identify any immediate or delayed reactions to the medication error. Patient monitoring can significantly improve outcomes by ensuring that any complications are addressed promptly. Addressing both the reporting and assessment aspects ensures a comprehensive response to the situation, focusing on maintaining patient safety as the highest priority in nursing practice.

Other approaches, such as ignoring the problem or merely documenting the error without taking action, could lead to significant health risks for the patient. Consulting a colleague without actively addressing the issue may delay critical interventions needed to safeguard the patient’s health. Therefore, the combined action of reporting and assessing provides the best course of action in the event of a medication error.