ATI Engage Fundamentals (Foundational Nursing Concepts of Nursing Practice) Medication Administration Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified

ATI Engage Fundamentals (Foundational Nursing Concepts of Nursing Practice) Medication Administration Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified What is the first step a nurse should take before administering any medication? Verify the medication order against the MAR What is the best way to confirm a patient’s identity before medication administration? Ask the patient to state their full name and date of birth Why should a nurse check the expiration date on a medication label? To ensure the medication is safe and effective for use What is one reason a nurse would refuse to administer a medication? The prescribed dose exceeds safe recommended limits How long should a nurse wait before documenting a PRN medication's effectiveness? 2 30 to 60 minutes after administration What is the safest method to identify a patient who is unconscious? Check the ID band and verify with a second staff member Why is it important to assess a patient’s allergies before giving any drug? To prevent allergic or anaphylactic reactions What should a nurse do if a patient questions the medication being administered? Recheck the medication order and explain it to the patient What part of medication administration includes washing hands and preparing equipment? Preparation phase What is the proper angle for a subcutaneous injection? 45 to 90 degrees, depending on the patient's body size Why should a nurse rotate injection sites? 3 To prevent tissue damage and ensure proper absorption When is it appropriate to crush a tablet before administering? When the medication is not extended-release and is safe to crush Why must the nurse document medication administration immediately after giving it? To ensure accurate record-keeping and avoid double dosing What should the nurse do if a patient refuses a medication? Document the refusal and notify the provider What is a sentinel event in relation to medication administration? A serious medication error resulting in patient harm or death What type of medication route bypasses the gastrointestinal system entirely? Intravenous Why is the “Right Time” important in medication administration? 4 To maintain therapeutic levels of the drug What should a nurse do if a patient vomits after taking oral medication? Notify the provider and assess the need to readminister What is the main reason for performing the “three checks” before giving meds? To ensure the correct medication and dose is given safely What does the “Right Documentation” mean in medication administration? Accurately recording medication name, dose, time, route, and patient response What is the term for a medication given under the tongue? Sublingual Why is it important not to touch the tip of a dropper when giving eye drops? To prevent contamination and infection What action should the nurse take if a medication label is hard to read or smudged? 5 Do not use it and request a new, clearly labeled medication Why must high-alert medications be double-checked by two nurses? To reduce the risk of serious errors and ensure patient safety What is the best way to ensure a child swallows an oral liquid medication? Use an oral syringe and administer slowly toward the inner cheek How can a nurse help prevent aspiration when giving oral medication to a stroke patient? Have the patient sit upright and offer water in small sips What should a nurse always do before administering insulin? Check the patient’s blood glucose level What part of the MAR ensures medications are given at the right time? The scheduled time column