What should be verified before medication is administered to a patient?

Before administering medication to a patient, it is essential to verify several critical factors to ensure patient safety and effective treatment. Verifying the patient's allergies is paramount, as this helps prevent adverse reactions that could occur if the patient is allergic to the medication being administered. Knowledge of any previous medication records is also crucial, as it can inform healthcare providers of any prior reactions or interactions that could affect the current treatment plan. Additionally, checking the medication shelf life is important to ensure that the medication is still effective and safe to use.

By selecting "all of the above," one recognizes the holistic approach needed in medication administration, emphasizing that comprehensive verification is essential in safeguarding patient health and optimizing therapeutic outcomes. Each of these elements interacts with the others, reinforcing the need for meticulous attention to detail in medication management.