Certified Medication Aide Practice

What is meant by "1 of 6" in medication administration?

1. Patient identification

2. Right medication

3. Correct dose

4. Medication expiration check

The correct answer is: Patient identification

In the context of medication administration, "1 of 6" refers to the six rights of medication administration, which are fundamental principles that healthcare providers, including medication aides, must follow to ensure safe and effective drug delivery. The first right, often referred to in conjunction with "1 of 6," is patient identification. This principle emphasizes the importance of confirming the identity of the patient before administering any medication. Proper patient identification mitigates the risk of medication errors, such as giving the wrong medication to the wrong person. Identifying the patient typically involves using at least two identifiers, which can include the patient's name, date of birth, or a medical record number. This practice reinforces accountability in medication administration and assures that the correct individual receives the prescribed treatment. By following the right procedures in patient identification, healthcare professionals support overall patient safety and improve health outcomes.