In case of a medication error, what is the first action a medication aide should take?

In the event of a medication error, the first action that a medication aide should take is to inform the supervisor. This is crucial because the supervisor is responsible for overseeing the care provided to residents and is trained to handle such situations effectively. By notifying the supervisor, the aide ensures that appropriate steps can be taken promptly to assess any potential harm to the patient, implement corrective measures, and initiate necessary documentation and follow-up actions. The supervisor often has protocols in place to manage medication errors and can provide guidance on how to proceed safely while ensuring the well-being of the patient.

While notifying the patient and family may be important later in the process, the priority should be on ensuring proper medical oversight and addressing the potential consequences of the error first. Documentation should also follow established procedures, which are typically executed after the supervisor has been informed to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the recorded information.