fc-test-3
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THE RIGHT PATIENT
Ask open questions such as “Could you tell me your name please?”
Confirm this against patient’s ID band and medication chart.
Check for allergies and document details if not already completed on medication chart.
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THE RIGHT DRUG
Cross check drug name in the medication chart with drug packaging.”
Check that the drug has not expired.
Check the indication for this drug to determine if it correlates with patient needs.
Check that drug has been stored correctly.
Check the formulation is correct, particularly whether or not it is a slow-release preparation.
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THE RIGHT DOSE
Ensure dose has been calculated correctly (e.g. according to weight or renal function).
Ensure dose and frequency have been prescribed using appropriate abbreviations (e.g. hourly frequency for PRN medications).
Question the dose if multiple dosing units are required (e.g. more than five tablets).
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THE RIGHT ROUTE
Ensure the drug is administered by the route ordered.
Ensure the route is appropriate for the patient.
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THE RIGHT TIME
Ensure the time/s for administration are written by the prescriber and correlate with the frequency ordered.
Ensure timing does not coincide with other drug/s or food that may interfere with its effects.
Confirm the time since last dose is appropriate, particularly for PRN medications.
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THE RIGHT TO REFUSE
Patients have the right to refuse to take a drug.
Clinicians have the right to refuse to administer a drug when, for whatever reason, they feel uncomfortable with the order.
Examples include: in apparent excess, has possible side effects that may require medical intervention or when clinician knowledge of the drug is inadequate for the situation.
Refusal by patient or clinician must be discussed with senior nursing staff, medical staff and documented in the progress notes.
