Medication Administration and Safety Flashcards

What is the DHA guideline for look-alike/sound-alike (LASA) medication management?

Answer: Separate storage, use tall-man lettering, alert stickers, and include both generic and brand names on orders to prevent confusion

DHA requires special handling of LASA medications including physical separation in storage, tall-man lettering (e.g., DOPamine vs DOBUTamine), alert stickers, and inclusion of both names on prescriptions.

What is the DHA requirement for patient allergy assessment before medication administration?

Answer: Verify allergy status on admission, document in the medical record, apply allergy wristband, and check before each medication administration

DHA requires comprehensive allergy assessment on admission covering drug, food, and environmental allergies, documentation in the record, allergy wristband application, and verification before each medication.

How should a DHA nurse calculate pediatric medication doses?

Answer: Calculate based on the child's weight in kilograms using the mg/kg formula and verify against recommended dose ranges

DHA pediatric medication dosing requires weight-based calculations using mg/kg formulas, verified against recommended dose ranges for the specific medication and age group, with mandatory independent double-checking.

What is the DHA protocol for managing IV infiltration or extravasation?

Answer: Immediately stop the infusion, aspirate residual fluid, apply appropriate compresses, elevate the limb, document and report

DHA protocols require immediate cessation of the infusion, aspiration of residual fluid through the catheter, application of hot or cold compresses depending on the medication, limb elevation, and detailed documentation.

What continuing education does DHA require for nurses regarding medication safety?

Answer: Annual medication safety competency assessments, updates on new medications and protocols, and high-alert medication training

DHA requires ongoing medication safety education including annual competency assessments, updates on formulary changes and new medications, high-alert medication training, and participation in safety improvement initiatives.

What is the DHA regulation on nurse-initiated medications (standing orders)?

Answer: Nurses may administer specific medications under approved standing orders or protocols, with documentation and physician notification

DHA allows nurses to administer certain medications under pre-approved standing orders or clinical protocols for specific clinical situations, with proper documentation and timely physician notification.