What action should you take if you cannot verify a medication dosage, such as insulin?

What action should you take if you cannot verify a medication dosage, such as insulin?

• A. Do not administer until you can verify dosage with authorized personnel.
• B. Administer a dosage based on prior memory.
• C. Administer a dosage if the patient requests it.
• D. Administer a different medication instead.

Answer: (A)

Insulin is a high‑risk medication where precise dosing is crucial. When you cannot verify the exact dosage, the safest action is to pause and obtain verification from an authorized person—typically the prescriber, pharmacist, or another clinician designated to confirm orders. This prevents dangerous dosing mistakes that could cause severe hypo- or hyperglycemia. Relying on memory, patient requests, or substituting a different medication ignores the specific treatment plan and can lead to harmful outcomes. If verification is needed, hold the dose, follow your facility’s verification procedures (such as a double-check with a second clinician), document the hold, and monitor the patient as required until the correct dose is confirmed and the order is reissued. Once verified, proceed with administration exactly as ordered.