Progressive Care Nursing Certification (PCCN) Practice Exam

Which action is necessary when a medication error occurs?

1. Discuss the error with coworkers only

2. Document the incident and inform the patient

3. Notify the patients’ family immediately

4. Start a new medication regimen

The correct answer is: Document the incident and inform the patient

When a medication error occurs, it is essential to document the incident and inform the patient. This action serves multiple critical purposes. First, documenting the error creates a permanent record that can be reviewed for future reference, ensuring that similar mistakes are less likely to happen again. It also allows for appropriate follow-up care if needed, based on the nature of the error. Informing the patient is a vital component of patient safety and transparency. Patients have the right to know about any errors that may affect their treatment or well-being. Providing this information fosters trust and helps in maintaining an open line of communication, which is crucial for effective patient care. While discussing the error with coworkers can be important for learning and prevention, it is not sufficient on its own. Similarly, notifying the patient's family may be necessary in certain situations, but it typically follows after informing the patient. Starting a new medication regimen without addressing the error may complicate the situation further and does not address the necessity of ensuring patient safety and proper management of the current treatment plan. Therefore, documenting and informing the patient is the most comprehensive and responsible approach when a medication error occurs.