What should a medication aide do first if they suspect a medication error has occurred?

When a medication aide suspects that a medication error has occurred, the first and most crucial step is to notify their supervisor. This action is vital because it ensures that the issue is escalated to someone in a position to assess the situation, provide guidance, and implement necessary actions to mitigate any potential harm to the patient. Prompt notification allows for immediate review of the circumstances surrounding the error, including the patient's condition and the specifics of the medication involved.

Taking immediate action by notifying a supervisor also helps facilitate a proper investigation into the error, contributing to patient safety and the improvement of procedures to prevent future occurrences. The involvement of a supervisor ensures that the situation is addressed by someone with the authority and experience to handle it appropriately, potentially involving other healthcare professionals as needed.