Why is it important to verify resident identity before administering medication?

Verifying resident identity before administering medication is crucial to ensure that the correct medication is given to the right person. This step is fundamental in medication administration as it directly impacts patient safety and treatment efficacy. If the wrong medication is administered to an individual, it can lead to serious health complications, adverse reactions, or even life-threatening situations.

In healthcare settings, especially where multiple residents may receive similar medications or have similar names, ensuring that the identity of the person receiving the medication matches the medication order is essential. This verification process minimizes the risk of medication errors and supports the overall goal of providing safe and effective care to each resident. It is a critical step in the "five rights" of medication administration: right patient, right drug, right dose, right route, and right time.