What should an LVN do if they make a medication error?

When a medication error occurs, the most appropriate course of action for an LVN is to report the error immediately and follow the facility's protocols. This ensures that the necessary steps can be taken to address the mistake and minimize any potential harm to the patient. Reporting the error allows for prompt assessment of the situation, including monitoring the patient for any adverse effects, and implementing interventions if needed.

Furthermore, adhering to facility protocols helps maintain a systematic approach to medication management, allowing for reviews and proper documentation of the incident. This practice is crucial for maintaining patient safety and enhancing the learning environment within the healthcare setting. It is important to create a culture of accountability and transparency that encourages healthcare professionals to report errors without fear of retribution, as this promotes overall patient safety and improves healthcare practices.

Taking responsibility through immediate reporting can also prevent further errors in the future by allowing the healthcare team to learn from the incident and implement corrective measures.