What do you need to verify before administering a medication?

Before administering a medication, it is essential to verify the client's name, dosage, route, and time of administration. This step is crucial in ensuring patient safety and the accurate delivery of care. By confirming the client's name, the caregiver ensures that the medication is given to the correct individual, thus preventing potential medication errors.

Verifying the dosage guarantees that the correct amount of medication is administered, which is vital for therapeutic effectiveness and avoiding toxicity. The route of administration—whether oral, intravenous, topical, etc.—must also be confirmed, as different routes can significantly affect how medications work. Lastly, checking the time of administration ensures that the medication is given at the appropriate schedule, which is critical for maintaining the medication's therapeutic levels in the patient's system.

Considering other options, while knowing the patient's favorite food may enhance rapport, it does not impact medication safety. The patient's medical history, although important for understanding overall health and potential interactions, is typically documented and reviewed during the prescribing phase rather than a step prior to administration. Additionally, knowing the medication storage location is not directly linked to the administration process itself, but rather pertains to proper handling and storage protocols.