High-Alert Medications, Independent Double-Checks Practice Test

A 40-year-old client is in the intensive care unit with septic shock and is ordered a continuous intravenous norepinephrine infusion to maintain mean arterial pressure above 65 mm Hg. Current medications include piperacillin-tazobactam and vasopressin; incorrect concentration or pump programming can cause severe hypertension, dysrhythmias, or inadequate perfusion. Which action should the nurse take FIRST to ensure medication safety before starting the infusion?

A 67-year-old client with a mechanical heart valve is being discharged on a new prescription for warfarin 5 mg by mouth daily. Current medications include amiodarone and omeprazole; incorrect dosing can lead to life-threatening bleeding or thromboembolism. The nurse is preparing to give today’s first inpatient dose. Which action should the nurse take FIRST to ensure medication safety?