Questions with Correct Answers and Expert
Explanation for Each Question
1. When preparing to administer a medication, the nurse must verify the patient’s
identity using which of the following methods?
A. Comparing the medication administration record (MAR) with the patient’s
identification band.
B. Asking the patient’s roommate to confirm the patient’s name.
C. Checking the patient’s room number against the medication record.
D. Relying on the nurse’s memory if the patient has been on the unit for several
days.
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: The nurse must use at least two patient identifiers to ensure
the right person receives the medication. Comparing the MAR with the identification
band provides a reliable and standardized method for verification. Using a room
number is unsafe because patients may be moved frequently. Patient roommates
are not official sources of identification for clinical procedures. This step is a
fundamental component of the six rights of medication administration.
,2. A physician orders 500 mg of an antibiotic to be given orally. The medication is
available in 250 mg tablets. How many tablets should the nurse administer?
A. 2 tablets
B. 1 tablet
C. 0.5 tablets
D. 3 tablets
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Dosage calculation requires dividing the desired dose by the
dose on hand to find the quantity. In this scenario, 500 mg divided by 250 mg equals
2. The nurse must perform this basic math accurately to prevent medication errors.
Double-checking calculations is a standard safety practice in nursing. Administering
two tablets ensures the patient receives the exact prescribed dose.
3. Which site is considered the safest and most preferred for an intramuscular (IM)
injection in an adult?
A. Dorsogluteal
B. Vastus lateralis
C. Deltoid
D. Ventrogluteal
,Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: The ventrogluteal site is preferred because it is far from major
nerves and blood vessels. It provides a deep muscle mass that can accommodate
larger volumes of medication. The dorsogluteal site is no longer recommended due
to the risk of sciatic nerve injury. While the deltoid is common, it has a limited
capacity for volume. Proper landmarking is essential for the nurse to identify the
ventrogluteal area correctly.
4. A nurse discovers that a medication error was made. Which action should the nurse
take first?
A. Assess the patient’s condition.
B. Notify the healthcare provider.
C. Complete an incident report.
D. Inform the nurse manager.
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: The priority after a medication error is always the safety and
well-being of the patient. The nurse must immediately assess for any adverse effects
or changes in vital signs. Once the patient is stabilized, the healthcare provider
should be notified to receive further instructions. Documentation of the error in an
incident report follows the clinical assessment and notification phases. Prioritizing
, assessment reflects the application of clinical judgment in an emergency or error
situation.
5. When should the nurse document the administration of a medication?
A. Before entering the patient’s room.
B. Immediately after giving the medication to the patient.
C. At the end of the shift with all other medications.
D. When the medication is removed from the automated dispensing cabinet.
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Accurate documentation must occur immediately following
the administration of the drug. Documenting before administration is a safety
violation because the patient might refuse the medication. Waiting until the end of
the shift increases the risk of forgetting details or double-dosing. The MAR serves as
a legal record of what was actually delivered to the patient. Proper timing in
documentation ensures continuity of care and patient safety.
6. A nurse is preparing to administer insulin to a patient. Which safety step is most
critical for this high-alert medication?
A. Have another licensed nurse verify the dose.
B. Assess the patient’s blood pressure.