When should the medication label and the MAR be compared?

The practice of comparing the medication label with the Medication Administration Record (MAR) at various stages is essential for ensuring patient safety and medication accuracy. This process is a critical part of the "five rights" of medication administration: the right patient, right medication, right dose, right route, and right time.

When selecting or removing the medication, it’s crucial to verify that the medication matches what is documented on the MAR. This initial check helps prevent any errors that could occur if the wrong medication is selected.

Before pouring the medication, another comparison is necessary. This step ensures that no mistakes have occurred after the selection phase and confirms the right medication, dose, and form are being prepared for administration.

Finally, after pouring but before returning the medication, it’s again important to check. This final verification helps catch any potential discrepancies that may arise during the handling process, ensuring that the medication given to the patient reflects what is documented on the MAR accurately.

By comparing the label and the MAR at all these stages, caregivers reduce the risk of medication errors significantly, which is why this thorough approach is critical in medication administration protocols.