If you realize you gave the wrong dose, what is the immediate action?

• A. Stop administration if safe, assess patient, notify prescriber, monitor patient, document the error, and report per policy.
• B. Continue dosing and document later.
• C. Double the dose to compensate.
• D. Ignore the error.

Answer: (A)

When a wrong dose is realized, the top priority is patient safety. Stop administration if it is safe to do so, then quickly assess the patient for any adverse effects or signs of overdose. Notify the prescriber right away to obtain corrected orders or guidance on reversal or additional treatment. Monitor the patient closely for changes in condition and document the error and all actions taken, following your facility’s reporting policy. This approach prevents further harm, supports timely care, and helps improve safety systems. Continuing the dose, doubling it, or ignoring the error can cause serious harm and does not address the patient’s immediate safety needs.