Questions: A nurse is preparing to administer medications to a client who is not wearing an identification bracelet. Which of the following actions should the nurse take before administering the medications? Verify the client's identity using their diagnosis. Use one identifier to confirm the client's identity. Use the client's room number to identify the client. Have the client confirm their name and date of birth.

The answer is the last one: Have the client confirm their name and date of birth.

Explanation for each option:

1. Verify the client's identity using their diagnosis:

   • This is incorrect because a diagnosis is not a reliable method for identifying a patient. Multiple patients can have the same diagnosis, and it does not provide a unique identifier.

2. Use one identifier to confirm the client's identity:

   • This is incorrect because best practices in healthcare require the use of at least two identifiers to ensure patient safety and avoid medication errors. Using only one identifier increases the risk of misidentification.

3. Use the client's room number to identify the client:

   • This is incorrect because room numbers can change, and patients can be moved to different rooms. Room numbers are not unique to the patient and should not be used as an identifier.

4. Have the client confirm their name and date of birth:

   • This is correct because asking the client to confirm their name and date of birth provides two unique identifiers, which is a standard practice in healthcare to ensure the correct patient is receiving the correct medication.

Summary: The nurse should have the client confirm their name and date of birth before administering medications. This practice ensures accurate patient identification and enhances patient safety.