What is the first step in the medication administration process?

The first step in the medication administration process is to verify the patient's identity. This is a crucial measure in ensuring patient safety, as administering medication to the wrong person can lead to severe complications or even fatalities. Confirming the patient's identity typically involves checking their name and date of birth against the medication administration record or using another form of identification.

By prioritizing patient identification, healthcare providers can prevent errors and ensure that the right patient receives the correct medication. This foundational step sets the stage for the subsequent actions in the medication administration process, such as preparing the medication and informing the patient about what they are receiving. Ensuring that the correct individual is being treated is essential for all the safety protocols that follow.